Eswatini
Capital: Mbabane (administrative)
Population
Estimated 1.2 million (2025)
Area
Approximately 17,364 km²
GDP
$4.8 billion (2023)
Bordering Countries
2
Overview
Landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique
Eswatini is a small landlocked kingdom heavily dependent on South Africa for trade. It has a diversified economy with sugar, manufacturing, and services, but faces challenges like unemployment and high HIV rates.
Bordering Countries: South Africa, Mozambique
Economic Profile
Primary Exports
Sugar, soft drink concentrates, coal, forestry products
Key Industries
Services, manufacturing (sugar, soft drink concentrates), agriculture, mining (coal)
Main Trade Partners
South Africa (dominant), Mozambique, regional neighbors
Economic Challenges
High unemployment, poverty, health concerns (high HIV prevalence), food insecurity (25% affected), infrastructure gaps
Trade & Transit Infrastructure
Main Transit Corridors
Fully reliant on South African transport networks
Key Border Crossing Points
Multiple crossings with South Africa
Port Access
South African ports (notably Durban)
Transport Infrastructure Quality
Investments in road construction (MR14, MR21), dam projects, energy sector
Trade & Transit Challenges
Heavy dependence on South Africa, logistical constraints, regional economic fluctuations
Key Statistics & Indicators
National Trade & Development Strategies
Emphasis on infrastructure, governance reforms, private sector development
Ongoing and Planned Projects
Road upgrades (MR14, MR21), Mpakeni dam construction, energy projects, trade facilitation enhancements