The Chamber
Over E37 Billion Pledged at Eswatini Investment Conference 2025
The French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FSACCI) participated in the inaugural Eswatini Investment Conference, held on 14–15 May 2025 in Ezulwini. Hosted by the Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) - falling under the guidance of Eswatini's Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade - the two-day event convened high-level government officials, investors, and trade organisations from across the region to explore Eswatini’s investment-ready sectors and drive regional economic collaboration.
FSACCI was represented by Vice Chairperson Thulisile Phiri and Senior Council Member Cédric Serre. Their participation underscored FSACCI’s commitment to strengthening economic ties accross the region. Serre also represented Cotecna South Africa, one of the event sponsors, and engaged with stakeholders to identify opportunities for cross-border cooperation.
Held under the theme “Creating Opportunities for Rapid Economic Transformation,” the conference highlighted Eswatini’s strategic advantages, and aimed to engaged with regional stakeholders and to explore opportunities for trade and investment and strengthen business ties across the region.
A defining outcome of the conference was the announcement of over E37 billion in investment pledges, marking a significant step in Eswatini’s economic transformation agenda. The pledges span across sectors such as energy, agro-processing, manufacturing, mining, logistics, and textiles, indicating strong investor confidence and a shared commitment to industrial development and economic diversification.
These investments are expected to contribute to infrastructure upgrades, boost exports, create employment opportunities, and stimulate innovation and skills development throughout the Kingdom.
Eswatini’s Prime Minister, Russell Mmiso Dlamini, lauded the event as a pivotal milestone and reaffirmed government support for investors. “Eswatini is open for business. We are strategically located and rich in potential. Build with us. Grow with us. Succeed with us,” he said during the closing ceremony. He also emphasised the importance of partnerships and the role of regional and continental institutions in accelerating inclusive growth.
As Eswatini positions itself as a competitive investment destination, FSACCI stands ready to support its members and partners in capitalising on new business opportunities and contributing to sustainable regional development.
