This chapter examines the potential role of competition policy in enhancing long-term productivity growth in South Africa. It begins by analysing recent economic performance both in terms of productivity dynamics and trade competitiveness. Different sets of measures indicate that the level of market concentration, albeit decreasing, has remained relatively high. To a large extent, an excessive monopolisation of the economy is a lasting legacy of the apartheid regime, which manifested itself during the period of forced import substitution. While the authorities primarily emphasise market-oriented responses to overcome these distortions, state interference in the economy remains extensive and is widely perceived as a viable development path. Empirical evidence shows unambiguously, however, that South Africa would reap large benefits from increased domestic and foreign competition.