Commercial Viability Diagnostic

Product Scoring Methodology Section

Product Scoring

Welcome to the Commercial Viability Diagnostic Tool. As part of the UNDP pilot phase for cross-border SEZ trade, establishing a rigorous, data-driven methodology was critical for identifying high-potential trade corridors. The criteria in this tool represent the exact framework utilized by our research team to quantify and select the four core focus categories driving the initial phase of the pilot. However, regional trade under the AfCFTA is dynamic. While the pilot maintains its strategic focus on these core categories, we recognize that highly viable, ad-hoc supply chain opportunities will inevitably emerge as MSMEs and off-takers interact. This calculator is designed to empower project stakeholders, SEZ authorities, and trade facilitators to rapidly evaluate any new, ad-hoc product categories against our standardized criteria. By utilizing a Binary Indicator Checklist, this tool removes subjective bias, ensuring that all new opportunities are measured objectively for demand strength, import substitution potential, supply readiness, logistics viability, and regulatory feasibility. How to Use This Tool: Define the Opportunity: Enter the specific product category or name in the field below. Complete the Diagnostic: Work through the five weighted criteria categories. Check the box for every indicator that applies to your specific trade opportunity. Leave the box unchecked if the indicator has not yet been met. Generate the Report: Click the "Generate Viability Report" button. The calculator will automatically apply the methodology's weighting multipliers to your inputs. Export the Playbook: The tool will generate a pop-up report detailing the product's performance graphs, its designated Activation Tier, and the immediate strategic next steps required. You can download this official report as a PDF to share with your team or institutional partners. Use the interactive diagnostic tool below to evaluate your trade opportunity.