The primary objectives of the Centre for Real Economy Study (Crest) are to catalyse economic research with a sectoral focus, especially relatively under-researched service sectors, and to improve the flow of information on relevant research between the policy and academic communities. The Provincial Economic Intelligence Unit’s (PEIU’s) objectives are to develop sub-national economic analysis capacity so as to inform Provincial Growth and Development Strategy processes. The SADC Trade Development Project is a three-year partnership between AusAID and TIPS created to conduct a number of research projects on trade reform in Southern Africa. The project aims to develop research infrastructure in the region by creating new databases, formulate policy- and private sector-relevant information tools and publications to inform policy, and build capacity in the region. The Trade & Industry Monitor’s main objective is to disseminate policy-relevant economic research, from macroeconomic policy to competition and regulation policy, ‘development’ issues in general, as well as sub-national economic policy issues, in an accessible format to policy-makers and analysts. The Academic Data Access and Training facility (ADAT) seeks to reinvigorate the relationship between TIPS and the economics departments of tertiary institutions. The ADAT facility will provide post-graduate students with access to new economic data not readily available to Universities as well as provide Small Research Grants to researchers undertaking policy-oriented studies in TIPS’ programme areas. The Southern African Development Research Network is a broad-based policy and research network which aims to increase the supply of policy-relevant research in the region and strengthen evidence-based policy-making. SADRN will initially focus on industrial policy and sector development at the regional level, service sector development and the impact on poverty, and trade policy and its linkages to pro-poor growth. Under the Small Enterprise Development (SED) programme, TIPS as an independent, credible institution not directly involved in the delivery of SMME services has since 2004 undertaken a number of broad-ranging, qualitative assessments of the outcomes of government's policy, strategy and initiatives in small enterprise development. The purpose of this project is to contribute to reducing poverty and inequality in South Africa by supporting the government to develop a Strategy for the Second Economy, as part of its Accelerated Shared Growth Initiative of South Africa (Asgi-SA), located in the Presidency. Economic Regulation
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Introduction to Economy-Wide Policy Impact Analysis

Date(s): 2007-09-24 to 2007-09-28

Workshop introduction

Most economics curricula deal with macroeconomic tools for studying the economy as a whole or microeconomic tools for studying the behaviour of individual agents or markets. However, practical public and private sector economic analysts often need to focus on the industry/sector or meso level of economic activity. Key sector analysis, sectoral impact studies, partial and general equilibrium trade and industry analysis are frequently conducted both in the public and the private sector.

Input-output (IO) and social accounting matrix (SAM) analyses are used on a regular basis as tools for such meso-level economic enquiry. Researchers use these tools to analyse the impact of policy-related and other changes on the economy. Such tools can also be extended to address broader concerns, such as the impact of policy on the environment or on energy requirements. Economic modelling techniques that capture economy-wide impacts of policy changes are increasingly being used in South Africa’s academic, consulting, research and policy environments.

To cater for the rising demand for these techniques, TIPS started offering a one-week introductory workshop on economy-wide policy impact analysis in 2001. We are pleased to announce that the seventh offering of this popular workshop will be held in Pretoria from 24-28 September 2007 (please note that 24 September is a public holiday in South Africa).

Workshop structure and benefits

The workshop is designed and presented by academics and experts in the field of economy-wide policy modelling. Lectures are used to introduce the theory and to provide insight into the scope of research possible using the particular modelling technique.

More importantly, each lecture is followed by hands-on exercises where the theory or model is applied using economic data from South Africa and other Southern African countries where appropriate. Apart from imparting the practical skills needed to apply the theory, these exercises familiarise participants with key features of the South African economy. Participants also present brief group projects using the modelling tools learnt during the workshop.

By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with sufficient theoretical and practical skills to engage in impact analysis. The workshop also provides a useful basis for process managers who have to digest such analysis, even though they may not undertake it themselves.

It also provides a solid grounding for those who wish to enter into the field of CGE modelling. For these participants, a CGE modelling workshop will be offered at a later stage.

Workshop fees: R8,000-00 (excluding VAT but including teas and lunches).
Closing date for registration: 28 August 2007

If you wish to be considered for admission to this workshop, please send you CV to Dirk Ernst van Seventer.

Further information on registration, accommodation and required preparation can be obtained from the workshop convenors: Dirk Ernst van Seventer or Rob Davies

View the Workshop programme

View the Workshop reading list

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