Dhaka, Bangladesh (CU)_ By strengthening economic links with Eswatini (former Swaziland), Bangladesh may access practically most of Africa’s $1.3 billion untapped market. Therefore, Senator Manqoba Khumalo, the Minister for Commerce, Trade, and Industry of Eswatini, invited Bangladeshi businesses in an effort to improve economic ties with his nation. He made the proposal during an official meeting with FBCCI, while leading his country’s delegation.
According to the minister, Eswatini’s significant geographic location makes it a gateway to the African continent. The minister highlighted that being a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), building commercial and investment links with Eswatini will facilitate market access to regional blocs in Africa.
According to a media statement, Senator Manqoba Khumalo emphasized Tax- and Duty-Free facilities and other incentives available for foreign investors. Additionally, he stated that China and India are the two largest exporters to Eswatini, and that his administration desire to see Bangladesh emerge as another significant trade and investment partner.
Bangladesh may view Eswatini as a prospective export market for readymade clothes, agricultural goods, information and communications technology services, and electrical goods. The African nation also shows interest in cooperative projects. According to Senator Manqoba Khumalo, Eswatini’s investment and Bangladesh’s technology and expertise may be utilized in the pharmaceutical business, biotechnology, contract farming, and information and communications technology.
The meeting was attended by the Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce for Industry and Trade, Cebile Amanda Nhlabatsi; MSME Director MlulekiSakhile Dlamini; Senior Executive Manager of Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority, Dr Khanyisiie Dlamini; and representatives from the Bangladeshi Business Community in Eswatini, Mohammed Asraful Alam Chowdhury, Badruzzaman Chowdhury, and Badral Alam Chowdhury.
Mohammad Mahfuzul Hoque, secretary general of the FBCCI, presided over the meeting. The other prominent attendees at the meeting were FBCCI Director M G R Nasir Majumder, Hafez Harun, Md Aslam Serniabath, Md Naser, Abu Hossain Bhuiyan (Ranu), Mohammad Ali Khokon, Advisor Manzur Ahmed, and Brigadier General (Retired) Abu Nayeem Md Shahidullah.
