BY BANELE MAGONGO
MBABANE– The Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) has transitioned to a fully digital system.
This year, paper-based applications will no longer be accepted.
According to an announcement by the Eswatini Investment and Trade Promotion Authority (EIPA), applications are now open for the EITF, which will take place from August 30th to September 8th, 2024 at the Mavuso Exhibition and Trade Centre in Manzini. To facilitate the application process for exhibitors and vendors, a new app has been launched, and all interested parties have until June 10, 2024, to secure their spot at the fair.
EITF Spokesperson Siphesihle Nkhabindze shared additional information about the new EITF app and the application process, in a press statement sent to this publication. Nkhabindze expressed the organisation’s delight in making the app available to the public, noting that while it currently accepted applications until the June 10 deadline, it would subsequently be used to provide updates on Trade Fair developments leading up to the event. Starting today, interested parties can download the app or access it through their browser to secure their spot at the Trade Fair.
According to Nkhabindze, prospective exhibitors and vendors can utilize the app to apply for an exhibition space or stand at the Trade Fair through two methods. Firstly, they can visit the Google Play Store, search for ‘EITF Digital Platform,’ and then select ‘Install.’ Alternatively, they can access the app via their browser by visiting https://bit.ly/eitfweb.
Nkhabindze mentioned that the browser option was also suitable for non-android users or those unable to download the app on their devices. Once installed, the app enables users to register, sign in, choose an exhibition size, select a hall, obtain a quotation, and pay for their desired space. The system generates quotations and invoices automatically for users’ financial records and saves quotations for those requiring approval before making payments.
Payment options available on the platform include Momo, VISA, and MasterCard. Nkhabindze further explained that the app allows users to register, sign in, choose an exhibition size, select a hall, obtain a quotation, and pay for their desired space. The system generates quotations and invoices automatically for users’ financial records and saves quotations for those who need approval before payment. Available payment options on the platform include Momo, VISA, and MasterCard.
Nkhabindze further explained that the app allowed users to register, sign in, choose an exhibition size, select a hall, obtain a quotation, and pay for their desired space. The system generates quotations and invoices automatically for users’ financial records and saves quotations for those who need approval before payment. Available payment options on the platform include Momo, VISA, and MasterCard.
Emphasising the transition to a fully digital application process, Nkhabindze stated that paper-based applications will not be accepted this year. All applications must be completed through the app to be considered valid. Recognising that this is the first time exhibitors and vendors will use the new application process, Nkhabindze provided WhatsApp contact numbers (+268 7950 0050 and +268 7979 4849) for assistance, available from 8am to 5pm.
Additionally, a basic guide to using the app can be found on social media platforms, and further information is available on the Eswatini International Trade Fair’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Recognising that this is the first time exhibitors and vendors will use the new application process, Nkhabindze provided WhatsApp contact numbers (+268 7950 0050 and +268 7979 4849) for assistance, available from 8am to 5pm. Additionally, a basic guide to using the app can be found on social media platforms, and further information is available on the EITF’s Facebook and Instagram pages.
