SWAZILAND TO LURE LIFEBLOOD INVESTORS

SWAZILANDS central bank has proposed far-reaching tax reforms to lure lifeblood investors following a 31.5% drop in foreign direct investment in 1999. The bank said the slump in investment flows – largely a result of the poor performance of key players in the export sector – coincided with a deteriorating trade account balance. The central bank said the tiny mountain kingdom could be in a strong position to attract investment for as long as it enjoyed the benefits the United States offers to eligible developing countries under two trade pacts. – AFP