South Africa is one of the most sophisticated and promising emerging markets in the world. It is also one of the most advanced and productive economies in Africa.

The country's remarkable ability to put centuries of racial discrimination behind it in favour of reconciliation was widely considered a social "miracle" and inspired similar peace efforts.

Post-apartheid South Africa has a government comprising all races, and is often referred to as the "rainbow nation", a phrase coined by South Africa’s Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu.

South Africa seeks to attract real and growing international investor commitment and, at the same time, fully capitalise on the opportunities to bring about dynamic growth in the country. In so doing it aims to enhance commercial and industrial development, while creating sustainable employment and providing training for the vast labour resource pool.

Since the inception of the new democratic government in 1994, South Africa has effectively adhered to disciplined, predictable economic fundamentals, and developed a strong entrepreneurial culture, keen to jointly develop the country with international partners.

From a geographic perspective, South Africa is proud of the role it plays in facilitating and supporting the development of Africa.

Through measures to liberalise trade and industrial development policies, South Africa has become established as a dynamic and internationally competitive investment location. Such measures include tariff reform, trade and investment promotion, an industrial strategy that focuses on supply and reform of the regulatory environment.

Considered alongside political stability, these measures have been instrumental in creating an economic scenario, ensuring that local and international firms are able to operate profitably in South Africa.

In June 2006, Research South Africa published, SOUTH AFRICA - Investor's Guide to Business Law and Trade, which provides an overview of the investment climate and regulatory environment in South Africa.  Included are chapters on the South African economy, business law, investment incentives, trading environment, trade relations and many other commercial aspects. Virtually all commercial legislation is individually dealt with in separate chapters. The book is an invaluable reference source for traders, potential investors, lawyers or anyone with an interest in doing business in South Africa. It contains some 170 pages and provides a broad analysis of the South African business environment.

Email enquiries@research-southafrica.com to receive a complimentary chapter or visit http://www.research-southafrica.com