BY MUKELO MAGAGULA
MBABANE – The Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, has called upon the nation to show their support and participation at the upcoming 2023 Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF).
Minister Mancoba said that, the Trade Fair is scheduled to take place from 1-10 September 2023 at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre.
He added that one of the highlights of the Trade Fair will be the presence of His Majesty King Mswati III, who is expected to officially open the event.
“Entry to the Official Opening is free. We have taken care to ensure that we have more local artists on the line-up than artists from outside the country. This is to make sure that we maintain a proudly local feel for entertainment on the day,” he said.
According to Minister Khumalo, the exhibition spaces for this year’s EITF have been fully booked, and applications are no longer being accepted. Over 300 exhibitors from various companies and organizations will be present, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn more about the showcased businesses.
He also added that, this year’s EITF will feature an exciting line-up of activities, including performances by local and South African artists, fun fair games, a Spring Bash featuring local acts, fashions shows, comedy, dance and sporting events.
Furthermore, Minister Khumalo highlights that business seminars will be conducted from 4 to 8 September, covering topics such as trading for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), exporting to the USA, and youth in business. These seminars will be held at the FNB Business Chamber and will be free for participants.
“Visitors to the EITF can also enter the Win a Car competition. The car, sponsored by WesBank and Kia Motors Eswatini, is the popular Kia Sonet. To enter the competition, emaSwati need to visit the stands at the Trade Fair and gather stamps on their entry form,” he added.
He also encourages the public to take full advantage of the EITF, as it presents a unique platform for business networking, knowledge sharing, and entertainment. With an array of exhibitions, seminars, and activities, the 2023 Eswatini International Trade Fair promises to be a memorable event for all attendees.
