Accelerating the implementation of the industrial policies of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and the Southern African Development Community through local adaptation

Abstract

This report examines the acceleration of industrial policies within the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) through local adaptation. It highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on economic growth in the Southern African subregion, emphasizing the need for member states to align national industrial policies with regional frameworks to enhance resilience and competitiveness. The study identifies key areas of alignment and misalignment between regional and national policies, barriers to implementation, and strategies for effective local adaptation. It proposes a minimum convergence template to guide member states in harmonizing their industrial policies with regional commitments, focusing on stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and the establishment of monitoring and evaluation frameworks. The report concludes with recommendations for regional economic communities and member states to foster collaboration, mobilize resources, and strengthen institutional capacities to achieve sustainable industrial development.