Dr Roger Latchman outlines a practical roadmap to position South Africa as a key global trade hub by 2035
June 18, 2026 – The International Trade Council has published Trading Up: How South Africa Can Anchor the Next Economic Growth Engine, a comprehensive new book by trade expert Dr Roger Latchman. This publication provides an analysis of how South Africa can leverage its industrial capacity, financial infrastructure, and strategic geographic position to foster sustainable, export-led economic development.
Spanning 15 chapters and 22,600 words, Trading Up explores the practical steps required to establish South Africa as a highly competitive global export nation. Dr Latchman examines critical sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, agribusiness, and the digital services frontier. The book addresses the structural barriers and domestic constraints currently facing the nation, offering pragmatic approaches to modernize ports, rail networks, and regulatory frameworks to facilitate smoother cross-border trade.
A key focus of the book is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and its potential to integrate regional markets. Dr Latchman discusses how South Africa can transition from exporting raw materials to high-value beneficiated goods, thereby supporting employment and driving local industrialization. The text also delves into the green energy transition and the alignment of human capital with modern trade requirements, providing a balanced view of the nation’s economic potential leading up to 2035.
“Dr Latchman’s analysis comes at an important moment for global trade, offering a constructive and grounded perspective on South Africa’s economic trajectory. By focusing on practical reforms, infrastructure development, and regional integration through the AfCFTA, this book serves as a valuable resource for policy makers and business leaders seeking to support sustainable growth in the region,” said Ranjani Rangan, Chairperson of the International Trade Council.
Trading Up is designed for policymakers, trade economists, business executives, investors, and academics interested in African development and international trade policy. It offers insights for those seeking to understand the complexities of emerging markets, global supply chains, and the strategic policies required to elevate a nation’s export capabilities in an increasingly interconnected global economy.
BOOK DETAILS:
Title: Trading Up
Subtitle: How South Africa Can Anchor the Next Economic Growth Engine
Author: Dr Roger Latchman
Published by: International Trade Council
Download at: https://itradecouncil.org/books/vs8fejwvn9w1k6hym60ak47ws587c0vh
ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE COUNCIL:
The International Trade Council is a peak-body trade organization dedicated to supporting businesses engaged in international commerce. The Council provides resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for exporters and importers worldwide. Recently, the Council launched its world-first AI-native member platform at www.itradecouncil.org, revolutionizing how trade professionals connect and access resources. The Council also operates ADAMftd (www.adamftd.com), a comprehensive global trade data solution for exporters looking to sell to foreign markets or source from foreign suppliers. ADAMftd provides real-world customs data, shipping data, sanctions screening, tariff information, trade rules, regulatory data, and company intelligence – making it the essential tool for modern exporters.
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