Trade and Industry Minister Mandisi Mpahlwa on Wednesday thanked Zambia for its work as SADC chairman, ahead of South Africa's taking over the role.

Speaking at the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) ministerial meeting in Johannesburg, Mpahlwa said South Africa would focus on development and prioritise deeper regional integration.

The meeting was part of preparations for the forthcoming Sadc summit. A ministerial task force would discuss amongst other things, the launching of the Sadc free trade area.

Sapa