Africa Business Registration: How businesses are registered in Eswatini

Starting a business in Eswatini involves more than coming up with an idea or finding customers. Before a company can trade, entrepreneurs must register it and meet the country’s tax and licensing requirements. Over the past few years, Eswatini has brought several government services together through its One Stop Business Facilitation Centre. The aim is to reduce the number of offices entrepreneurs need to visit when setting up a business and make the registration process less time consuming.

Registering a company

The Registrar of Companies oversees company registration. Entrepreneurs begin by checking whether their preferred business name is available. After the Registrar approves the name, applicants submit documents identifying the company’s directors, shareholders and registered address. If the application complies with the Companies Act, the Registrar issues a certificate of incorporation. Many founders, that certificate allows the business to operate as a recognised legal entity. It is also a requirement for opening a business bank account or applying for certain forms of finance.

Meeting tax obligations

After registering the company, entrepreneurs must register with the Eswatini Revenue Service (ERS) for tax purposes. The ERS issues Tax Identification Numbers and administers VAT and employer registrations where they apply. The exact requirements depend on the size of the business and the type of activities it will undertake.

When additional licences are required

Company registration does not automatically allow every business to start trading. Businesses operating in transport, tourism, food services, healthcare and financial services may need additional licences before they open. Local authorities may also require trading permits, depending on the type of business and where it operates.

Support for entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs looking for advice can approach organisations such as the Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO), which provides business training and advisory services to small enterprises. The Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) also assists businesses seeking investment opportunities or planning to expand their operations. Starting a business still requires time and paperwork, but Eswatini has reduced some of the administrative burden by bringing key registration services together. Entrepreneurs now complete more of the process through a single point of contact instead of dealing with several government offices, making it easier for startups and SMEs to establish themselves in the country’s formal economy.