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Eswatini, a small southern African country, presents interesting potential in the tech-trade sector. Despite its modest population and limited financial infrastructure, the country has positioned itself as an export-oriented economy leveraging regional and international trade agreements.The trade environment in Eswatini is shaped by regional integration: the country is a member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), which harmonize tariffs and trade practices across member states — offering potential advantages when sourcing goods from partner countries.
Although the trade landscape of Eswatini has great potential, importing technology products remains a challenge due to regulatory oversight, limited local infrastructure, and need for careful compliance. That makes working with an experienced importer essential. TLS Technologies stands ready to support your cross-border trade. Even if the destination has a small economy or complex regulatory environment, our expertise ensures smooth import of technology goods.
1.3M
Sugarcane
Lobamba, Mbabane
Refined Petroleum
Imported technology goods often face substantial duties and taxes, which vary depending on their classification (based on HS codes). This can significantly affect the landed cost, especially for tech equipment or electronics.
Certain items particularly second-hand goods, electronic devices containing cables or plugs, or “dual-use” equipment — may require special import permits before they can be cleared. Failure to secure required permissions can result in delays or refusal.
Because much of Eswatini’s trade passes through neighboring countries (often via South Africa) and due to limited infrastructure at key border posts, shipment clearance may face delays or logistical bottlenecks. Furthermore, being landlocked, Eswatini’s geography adds an extra layer of complexity — making warehousing, inland transport, and delivery coordination more critical.
Proper classification under the harmonized system (HS) and accurate documentation (invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, etc.) are mandatory. Mistakes can lead to fines, overpayment, or shipment holds.
Primary Regional Partners: Goods often transit via or originate from neighboring countries within SACU/SADC — most notably South Africa.
Global Origin Markets: Many capital goods, electronics, machinery — including tech hardware — come from major global suppliers (e.g. Asian exporters including China).
Because of SACU/SADC membership and trade agreements, items from these regions may benefit from reduced tariffs or smoother customs procedures, depending on origin and classification
Because most shipments enter Eswatini through South Africa, importers must secure an International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) permit before the goods can transit. This permit is mandatory for any technology product that includes plugs or electrical cables, as well as for all used or refurbished equipment. TLS Technologies manages the entire permit process on your behalf — collecting all required documentation and ensuring your shipment passes through customs without delays.
Although not mandatory for every shipment, obtaining an insurance letter is strongly recommended when transporting high-value equipment, as the Eswatini route is considered a higher-risk corridor. This added documentation helps safeguard your goods and provides additional assurance throughout the transport process.
Complete our contact/shipping request form and one of our trade specialists will reach out to you promptly. We will assess your shipment, advise on compliance requirements, duties, taxes, lead-times, and propose a tailored import plan for Eswatini.
