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This briefing, produced by the South African Institute of International Affairs with support from the International Trade Centre, outlines private sector perspectives on the implementation of the SADC Free Trade Area (FTA). It identifies significant barriers to regional trade, including restrictive rules of origin, non-tariff barriers, and the complexities of overlapping membership in multiple regional economic communities.

This research paper examines the socio-economic and environmental impacts of copper mining in Zambia, focusing on the transition from state ownership under Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Limited (ZCCM) to privatisation. It argues that while privatisation and high global copper prices have increased production and corporate profits, the benefits have not reached local communities, leading to increased social conflict, environmental degradation, and a decline in social services.