PROTOCOL ON TRADE Preamble : The High Contracting Parties : - Noting that the Treaty establishing the Southern African Development Community has, in Article 22, expressly called for the conclusion of Protocols as may be necessary in each area of co-operation within the Community ; - Considering that trade in goods and services and the enhancement of cross-border investment are major areas of cooperation among the Member States of the Community ; - Recognizing that the development of trade and investment is essential to the economic integration of the Community ; - Recognizing that an integrated regional market will create new opportunities for a dynamic business sector ; - Convinced of the need to strengthen customs co-operation and combat illicit trade within the Community ; - Convinced that a framework of trade co-operation among Member States based on equity, fair competition and mutual benefit will contribute to the creation of a viable Development Community in Southern Africa ;