This paper assesses the economic performance of continental SADC with specific attention to the status quo of industrialisation in the region and the aim of stimulating development of regional value chains. Southern Africa is among the poorest regions in the world, largely due to colonialism and dependence on commodities. Several decades after the end of colonial rule,regional manufacturing remains small, relative to peers, with South Africa disproportionately represented. This paper builds on previous work which sought to uncover the potential for greater regional integration through economic diversification and industrialisation.