Moroka Open To SA In SADC-EPA Deal

However, the minister was diplomatic last week at a press conference suggesting that South Africa's concerns concerning the negotiations be listened to.

"We have initialled the EPAs without South Africa and we can go ahead without South Africa," says Moroka. He later changed his mind: "They (South Africa) want to be part of the EPA and they are talking to the European Union (EU) on negotiations. "There is generally a willingness to be part of the EPAs. Let us wait and see. It will not be fair if I say we will sign without them (South Africa)." Moroka says concerns raised by members will be taken on board in parallel negotiations for a final agreement.  South Africa last year shocked the SADC-EPA group after it refused to put its signature on the interim EPA agreement questioning the legality of 'SADC-EPA' block and also raising concerns on its infant industries.