MBABANE – Business Eswatini (BE) has renewed its call for consumers to prioritise locally produced goods and services this festive season.
BE says buying local is key to strengthening the country’s economy and sustaining jobs.
In a message released ahead of the festive shopping period, the organisation emphasised that every purchasing decision made by consumers has a direct impact on the national economy. By choosing local products, money is retained within communities, enabling businesses to grow, protect existing jobs and create new employment opportunities.
BE said the festive season traditionally brings increased consumer spending, presenting a critical opportunity to support domestic enterprises, particularly small and medium-sized businesses that form the backbone of the economy.
The organisation noted that local businesses continue to face pressure from rising operational costs, competition from imports and broader economic challenges.
The business body has, in previous years, consistently advocated for a strong buy-local culture, arguing that sustained support for Eswatini-made products and services contributes to economic resilience.
According to BE, local procurement strengthens supply chains, improves business confidence and helps develop local industries across sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, retail and services.
The organisation further highlighted that supporting local businesses is not only a short-term boost during the festive season, but, a long-term investment in national development.
It said consistent local support enables businesses to reinvest, expand operations and improve product quality, which ultimately benefits consumers.
BE also reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to create an enabling environment for business growth, including advocating for policies that promote local production and competitiveness.
As the festive season approaches, the organisation has encouraged consumers to be intentional with their spending choices, saying buying local is a practical way for citizens to contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable economy for Eswatini.
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