The 2025 TIPS Forum seeks to deepen understanding of the implications of the AfCFTA and regional integration on industrial development in Southern Africa. Through expanding trade and investment between countries on the continent, the AfCFTA, along with regional integration, opens the opportunity for strengthening industrial development on the continent. There are, however, risks to smaller economies or that circumvention of trade protocols could undermine the intent of the AfCFTA to grow the industrial base across the continent and strengthen economic development. Alignment of industrial policy with the AfCFTA needs to take place.

Authors are invited to submit an abstract of up to 500 words. To be considered, abstracts should be submitted by Friday 28 March 2025. Authors will be notified of the decision by Friday 9 May 2025. Final papers are due for submission by Friday 27 June 2025. Abstract submissions should include full contact details of the authors.

If you wish to contribute, please submit the title of your paper and the abstract to Daphney Mabuza at TIPS via email to: dialogue@tips.org.za