This publication reviews Southern Africa’s progress and challenges in implementing the AfCFTA, emphasizing the need to build on the acquis of SADC, COMESA, and SACU to deepen integration. It assesses achievements in tariff liberalization, rules of origin, trade facilitation, and non‑tariff barrier reduction, while highlighting new protocols on investment, intellectual property, competition, and digital trade. The study stresses coordinated policies and inclusive participation to enhance regional integration.