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Discussions in 2004 with AusAID to support TIPS to implement a regional programme on trade-related policy research in 10 Southern African countries culminated in an agreement for a three-year partnership. Implementation of the programme began in 2005.
Capacity-building is a core focus of the programme and so far, more than 150 policy analysts and researchers in Southern Africa have been trained in trade data manipulation and advanced trade analysis. Five projects were selected for implementation:
- Development of a Southern Africa Trade Database:
TIPS researchers travel to SADC Member States to collect trade data and build capacity through a number of training sessions, particularly aimed at empowering local researchers and policy-makers to use the database effectively. The database is structured using sophisticated database software, Beyond 20/20, which allows for maximum functionality and flexibility, resulting in a very powerful tool for trade analysts and policy-makers in the region. The overwhelming response thus far has been highly positive and participants have expressed a strong interest in seeing the database maintained. - Integration of SACU Social Accounting Matrices:
TIPS is contributing to the construction of a Swaziland SAM, which will be integrated into a SACU multi-country framework, together with the current Lesotho and South Africa SAMs. - SADC Export Market Intelligence:
Information on the export performance and potential of many developing countries remains incomplete. TIPS' Trade Information Service series of market briefs aims to contribute to bridging this information gap for existing producers in SADC who may not have the financial resources to generate a fully fledged market research process. The briefs are basic first-cut analyses of export prospects to allow enterprises to make the decision on whether to initiate further market research. Each 'Brief' covers a product cluster of particular interest to SADC members. - SADC Trade Performance Review:
TIPS has commissioned in-country researchers for two intra-SADC trade performance reviews, which analyse member states' trade performance across a range of dimensions. A special focus of the reviews is an indication of the level and depth of intra-SADC trade flows. Each country analysis distinguishes between trade with South Africa, trade with the rest of SADC and trade with the rest of the world to offer the SADC Secretariat and other stakeholders further insight into how trade within the region has evolved and could be facilitated further. The ultimate aim of the project is to identify the products that SADC member states import from other countries but could actually source from within SADC.
