The potential benefit of several regional integration initiatives undertook by African
countries in recent years is a contentious issue that is continuously being debated.
This article assesses the impact of a free trade agreement between member countries
of the Southern African Development Community on agriculture. Findings show
negative welfare results for regional importers because of the increased imports from
inefficient regional producers, who are the major beneficiaries of the agreement. To
enhance the benefits gained, the region should implement regional policies beyond
trade arrangements, such as those enhancing investment, agricultural productivity, and
product diversification