The transformation of SADCC from a Coordinating Conference to a Development Community took place in August 1992 in Windhoek, Namibia. SADC was formed with an expanded mandate seeking greater economic and political integration of the sub-region. The organisation was committed to the creation of a framework for common interest in the areas of public governance, defence and security, socio-economic development and to strengthen regional political solidarity and provide for mutual peace and security. It placed more emphasis on increasing markets within the sub-region and strengthening economic ties between SADC member states and external actors. Southern African regionalism removed some trade barriers, allowing greater movement of goods and capital across its borders. However, statistical data reflect that there is very little trade amongst African states. A question was posed as to what the impediments could be to inter-state trade.