Eswatini has launched an advanced training programme on Rules of Origin under the World Customs Organisation (WCO), aimed at strengthening the country’s trade capacity and maximising opportunities within regional and continental agreements.
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Trade officially opened the training in Mbabane, with Director of International Trade Lungile Dlamini representing the Principal Secretary at the ceremony.
Dlamini expressed appreciation to the European Union, GIZ, and the WCO for their continued support, highlighting their role in advancing Eswatini’s trade development.
She explained that the advanced programme builds on an intermediate session held in August at the Eswatini Revenue Service headquarters, which was designed to boost cooperation between the Ministry and Customs officials.
The Principal Secretary underscored the importance of understanding Rules of Origin in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), noting that proper implementation is especially critical in sectors such as textiles, clothing, and automotive manufacturing.
Determining the precise origin of products, she stressed, is vital for ensuring access to preferential trade benefits, fostering regional value chains, and safeguarding fair revenue collection.
As part of the training, participants will gain practical exposure through site visits to factories and offices, enhancing their skills in verification processes and the issuance of certificates of origin. These hands-on activities are expected to strengthen the expertise of officials tasked with facilitating trade flows and enforcing compliance.
The Ministry also extended its gratitude to the AfCFTA and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariats for their role in helping Eswatini maximise the benefits of regional and continental trade frameworks.
Officials emphasised that by deepening knowledge of Rules of Origin, Eswatini aims to position itself more competitively in regional markets and secure stronger economic opportunities under the AfCFTA.
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