Many arguments for speeding up the regional integration process in Africa have been advanced from many quarters - political leaders, economists in government and the private sector, and researchers in universities and think tanks.

It is generally agreed that integration would be politically and economically beneficial for Africa in the global economy. In response, African countries have tried to strengthen their regional economic communities, streamlining their mandates, and with some regions even considering closer political union.

In spite of these efforts, the goal of an economically integrated Africa remains elusive. The aim of the African Economic Conference 2013, taking place from October 28-30 in Johannesburg, South Africa, is to address these challenges and suggest solutions.

As in past years, the African Economic Conference 2013 will be organized jointly by the African Development Bank, the Economic Commission for Africa and the United Nations Development Programme.

The main objectives of the African Economic Conference series are: (1) To promote knowledge management as an important driver of policy dialogue, good policy planning and implementation; (2) To foster dialogue that promotes the exchange of ideas and innovative thinking among researchers, development practitioners and African policymakers; (3) To encourage and enhance research on economic and policy issues related to the development of African economies; and (4) To provide an opportunity for young African researchers, Africans in the Diaspora, regional and sub-regional organizations to disseminate their research findings as well as share information with African policymakers on the work they do in the region.

Authors are invited to submit full papers before August 30, 2013 following the instructions on the website. Papers will be blind reviewed by an independent institution. The objective is to have the highest quality papers presented at the conference.