The Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy has commenced a nationwide stakeholder engagement process on the Draft Regulations for the Enforcement of Electrical and Electronic Equipment and Appliances Standards, 2026.
The first consultation was held at SibaneSamiHotel on Tuesday, with further engagements scheduled for Manzini, Lubombo and Shiselweni.
According to the ministry, the proposed Regulations seek to strengthen the enforcement of recognised standards for electrical and electronic equipment and appliances in Eswatini. 
The ministry stated that the objectives of the draft are to promote public safety, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, fair competition and consumer protection.
The ministry’s officials noted that enforcement is intended to address the importation, distribution and sale of substandard and non-compliant electrical and electronic products that currently enter the local market.
The ministry said the participation of affected parties is necessary to ensure that the Regulations are practical and can be implemented effectively.
“The ministry recognises that effective regulations must be developed through meaningful consultation with those who will be affected by and responsible for implementing them,” the ministry stated.
takeholders were also encouraged to submit concerns, practical experiences and recommendations to inform the final framework.
The ministry outlined that the draft Regulations propose mandatory compliance with recognised national and international standards for all electrical and electronic equipment and appliances entering the Eswatini market.
Other proposed provisions include requirements for product labelling, market surveillance, and penalties for the supply of non-compliant goods.
The Ministry further stated that the Regulations will include provisions on minimum energy performance standards.
The aim, the ministry said, is to reduce electricity consumption and the cost burden on consumers, particularly households and small businesses that rely heavily on electrical appliances.
On environmental matters, the draft proposes measures for the management of electronic waste. Importers and suppliers will be expected to take responsibility for products at the end of their life cycle.
The ministry noted that e-waste is a growing challenge and that a structured approach to collection and disposal is needed to reduce environmental impact.
The mnistry also stated that the Regulations are intended to promote fair competition and market integrity.
Officials said businesses that comply with standards are currently disadvantaged by the presence of cheaper, uncertified products in the market.
The proposed enforcement measures are aimed at ensuring that all market players operate under the same requirements, thereby protecting compliant businesses and consumers from misleading prices and unsafe products.
The ministry linked the Regulations to national energy and environmental goals. It stated that inefficient appliances contribute to increased electricity demand and place additional pressure on the national grid.
The ministry confirmed that the stakeholder engagement process will continue in the remaining three regions.
Inputs gathered from all consultations will be reviewed and incorporated into the draft before it proceeds to the next legal steps.
