AWAZA, TURKMENISTAN – Eswatini and Turkmenistan have started formal discussions to end the zero trade status between the two countries, with talks held in Awaza yesterday focusing on a potential economic and technological partnership.
The Eswatini delegation was led by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Pholile Shakantu and included ICT Minister Savannah Maziya, Commerce, Industry and Trade Minister Manqoba Khumalo, and Public Works and Transport Minister Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe. Also part of the delegation were Ambassador to the United Nations Thami Dlamini and Chief Mgwagwa Gamedze from the King’s Office.
The talks explored opportunities in ICT, agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and mining. Eswatini showed particular interest in space and satellite technology, data centres, and producing high-tech products such as SIM cards and electronic devices.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to initiate formal communication for a cooperation agreement and confirm Eswatini’s participation in Turkmenistan’s ICT exhibition set for November 2025. Energy was another key focus, with Eswatini expressing its intention to strengthen ICT and other sectors through sustainable energy.
On infrastructure, Eswatini proposed the sale of bitumen to regional markets and requested details on Turkmenistan’s raw material stock exchange to explore purchasing options.
Trade in textiles was raised, with Eswatini looking to import cotton while inviting Turkmenistan to explore opportunities in the kingdom’s textile sector, which employs over 30,000 people. Talks also included agriculture, where Eswatini showed interest in exporting local produce and importing wheat and rice grain.
Mining and fuel were also on the table. Eswatini invited Turkmenistan to consider investment in its iron ore and coal resources and showed interest in securing fuel reserves through raw product supply from Turkmenistan. Sugar exports were also proposed as a new trade avenue.
The Turkmen delegation welcomed Eswatini’s interest across sectors and expressed willingness to move ahead with formal agreements through diplomatic channels. They also acknowledged the textile and sugar trade proposals and agreed to explore possible collaboration.
Both sides described the talks as productive and showed optimism about deepening cooperation across key sectors.
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