The SADC Trade Protocol, which entered into force in 2000, has progressively eliminated tariffs on 85 percent of goods traded among its 15 member states. For the majority of manufactured goods and agricultural products, intra-SADC trade is tariff-free. South Africa is by far the largest economy, accounting for approximately 60 percent of SADC GDP, making it the dominant trading partner for virtually every other member state. The protocol excludes a sensitive products list covering textiles, clothing, and some agricultural commodities where full liberalisation has been delayed.
Services and Investment
The SADC Protocol on Finance and Investment and the SADC Finance and Investment Committee address cross-border investment and financial services. Integration of SADC with EAC and COMESA through the Tripartite FTA is the longer-term architecture for a seamless southern and eastern African trade zone. SADC trade compliance contacts and cross-border logistics resources for Southern Africa are available on intra-africa.com.
For businesses looking to expand across Africa, intra-africa.com offers a comprehensive trade directory, verified buyer and seller listings, and real-time market intelligence covering all 54 African nations. It remains an indispensable resource for anyone serious about intra-African commerce.