According to the World Trade Organization, trade represented 162.2% of Swaziland’s GDP from 2005-2007.  In 2008, merchandise exports totaled over $1.7 billion while merchandise imports totaled over $2.2 billion.  In 2008, commercial services exports totaled $447 million while commercial services imports totaled $494 million. 

Note:  The information in this snapshot can help identify trade factors that may impact investments in Swaziland.  For example, the higher the Trade-to-GDP ratio the greater sensitivity Swaziland’s economy might have to global economic, trade, and financial fluctuations. Also, changes in economies or industries of key trading partners may trigger changes in Swaziland’s economy and industries.

Major Imports and Exports

According to the International Trade Centre, the top five export categories for Swaziland in 2008, along with percentage of total exports, were:

1. Sugars and sugar confectionery (21%)
2. Essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics, and toileteries (12.3%)
3. Miscellaneous edible preparations (10.1%)
4. Articles of apparel and accessories made of knit or crochet (9.1%)
5. Articles of apparel and accessories not made of knit nor crochet (7.2%)

According to the International Trade Centre, the top five import categories for Swaziland in 2008, along with percentage of total imports, were:

1. Boilers, machinery, nuclear reactors, etc. (12%)
2. Electrical and electronic equipment (11.6%)
3. Knitted or crocheted fabric (9.5%)
4. Coffee, tea, mate, and spices (6.8%)
5. Essential oils, perfumes, cosmetics, and toiletries (5%)

Major Trading Partners

The top three countries to which Swaziland exports merchandise, along with percentage of exports, are:

1. South Africa (45.2%)
2. Botswana (31.6%)
3. European Union (14.4%)

The top three countries which import merchandise to Swaziland, along with percentage of imports, are:

1. South Africa (92.9%)
2. Namibia (2.2%)
3. Lesotho (1.4%)

Sources:  World Trade Organization and International Trade Centre

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