By Phiwa Sikhondze
The Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) has awarded Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) accreditation to two more companies, Umbuluzi Valley Sales and Kellogg Tolaram bringing the total number of AEO-accredited businesses in the country to 11.
The accreditation ceremony was held at The Royal Villas in Ezulwini and marked an important milestone in enhancing trade facilitation in Eswatini. This marks a key advancement in the AEO program, designed to streamline customs procedures, enhance trade security, and reduce cross-border trade risks in Eswatini and the wider Southern African Customs Union (SACU) region.
The AEO accreditation will provide both companies with a range of benefits, including faster customs clearance, fewer inspections, and priority treatment at borders. These advantages will enhance their competitiveness in the global market while maintaining high standards of compliance and security.
Leonard Nxumalo, Head of Corporate Services at ERS, commended the newly accredited companies and underscored the importance of the AEO program in bolstering trade efficiency and security.
“By meeting the rigorous standards set by the AEO program, Umbuluzi Valley Sales and Kellogg’s have shown their commitment to secure, efficient, and compliant trade,” Nxumalo remarked. “This accreditation not only enhances your businesses but strengthens the integrity of our entire trade system.”
Andile Mlotsa, representing Kellogg’s at the ceremony, reflected on the company’s journey in Eswatini, noting the importance of the timing of the accreditation.
“I started with the company when there was no factory shell. Building from scratch, the timing of this partnership is ideal as we are now expanding into new markets such as Zambia, Zimbabwe, and hopefully Mozambique,” Mlotsa said.
“Having this partnership and the support it offers is invaluable. It’s about growing together and staying ahead of evolving regulations. This program helps us navigate those challenges and align with our long-term growth plans.”
The ceremony was part of a two-day consultation event that included active participation from Eswatini’s Other Government Agencies (OGAs) and the SACU Secretariat. The discussions focused on aligning AEO programs across SACU countries, creating a unified “Single Government AEO Program.”
This initiative aims to enhance collaboration among customs authorities and government agencies to streamline trade processes and improve security in cross-border commerce.
On the first day of consultations, delegates explored the SACU Regional AEO Program, reviewed the roles of OGAs, and discussed draft rules and processes for the program. The second day delved into risk management strategies, ultimately culminating in the accreditation ceremony where Umbuluzi Valley Sales and Kellogg’s were officially recognized for meeting AEO compliance standards.
Nxumalo expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the AEO program and reaffirmed ERS’s ongoing commitment to supporting accredited operators.
“We are dedicated to ensuring our AEO members fully leverage the benefits of this program,” Nxumalo added. “Together, we are advancing toward a future of more efficient, secure, and competitive trade.”