BY: SIKHONA SIBANDZE | JOURNALIST
Manzini – The Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) has opened applications for local businesses to participate in the Designed Giftionery Expo 2026, scheduled to take place from 16–19 April 2026 in Taipei, Taiwan.
The opportunity targets Eswatini-based manufacturers and producers with locally made goods, offering them a platform to access the Asian market and engage directly with international buyers, distributors, and retailers. Designed Giftionery is one of Asia’s leading trade shows for gifting, stationery, lifestyle products, handicrafts, beauty and wellness items, and creative goods. The expo attracts buyers from across the region, making it a strategic entry point for export-ready Eswatini enterprises seeking to expand beyond domestic and regional markets.
According to Sibusiso Mnisi, Executive Head of Trade Promotion at EIPA, the invitation follows a year of intensified export development initiatives by the Authority in 2025. These included the rollout of an Export Guide, a structured 2026 Trade Show Calendar, Export Readiness Training, Trade Map Training, and enhanced promotion of local traders through storytelling.
“Following a series of deliberate training interventions in export readiness and market intelligence, EIPA is pleased to invite export-ready Eswatini businesses to apply to exhibit at Designed Giftinery 2026 in Taipei,” said Mnisi. “This platform aligns well with the creative and value-added products produced by Eswatini traders and offers direct access to the Asian market.”
He added that participating businesses will benefit from first-hand interaction with buyers from a new market while promoting their products to prospective customers on the ground.
EIPA’s facilitation of local business participation is supported by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), which assists Eswatini exhibitors with flights, accommodation, and exhibition space at the expo. The initiative also allows businesses to leverage the Economic Cooperation Agreement between Eswatini and Taiwan, which provides duty-free access for 199 Eswatini products into the Taiwanese market.
However, EIPA has emphasized that applicants must be well prepared. Businesses are expected to ensure their products meet international market standards, have export-ready pricing structures, and present strong branding and packaging suitable for global audiences. Applicants are also encouraged to demonstrate innovation in how they position their products and brands. The application deadline is 12 February 2026, and interested businesses can apply online through EIPA.
EIPA encouraged local manufacturers to take a bold step toward export growth by applying, preparing thoroughly, and showcasing Eswatini-made products with confidence. The Authority said participation in international platforms like Designed Giftionery is part of building a stronger export culture, one where local producers pursue new markets, learn directly from global buyers, and turn Eswatini’s innovation and quality into sustainable trade opportunities.
