Getting Exports Back on Track

As a small open economy, exports are critical to South Africa's future growth and development. However, despite the stated emphasis on boosting export growth and diversification in prior national policy frameworks, the country has adopted a more inward-looking approach over the last decade and a half. This has included the halting of tariff reductions and the increased use of import-related interventions, including anti-dumping duties, safeguard measures and local content requirements. This policy brief offers an overview of South Africa's trade performance, and sets out a trade research and policy agenda for the South African government.