The Presidency has noted the new 30% tariff imposed on South African exports to the United States of America (USA).
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing “reciprocal tariffs” on some of its trading partners, including China, the European Union, Australia and Brazil.
In a sweeping move that sent shockwaves through global markets, US President Donald Trump unleashed a new trade war on Wednesday, imposing a blanket 10% tariff on all imports—with punitive rates for nations he branded as the “worst offenders.” Among them? South Africa.
“America First” Goes Nuclear
Flanked by aides and wielding a dramatic chart, Trump detailed his aggressive “reciprocal tariff” plan—a long-threatened policy designed to force “unfair” trading partners into line. The list of targeted economies reads like a geopolitical hit list: China, the EU, India, Japan, South Korea—and, unexpectedly, South Africa.
“Discounted” Punishment
Though Trump boasted of showing “kindness” by not matching foreign tariffs dollar-for-dollar, the rates remain brutal. While accusing China of slapping the US with 67% duties, he fired back with a “bargain” 34%. South Africa, meanwhile—allegedly taxing US goods at 60%—now faces a retaliatory 30% levy.
A Sudden Vendetta Against South Africa?
The inclusion of South Africa raised eyebrows, especially after Trump’s cryptic remark: “A lot of bad things are happening there.” He vaguely referenced cutting aid, claiming, “We send them billions, but we had to stop—bad things.” No further details were given, leaving analysts scrambling to decode the abrupt hostility.
Global Backlash Looms
With the move threatening to destabilize trade networks already reeling from pandemic strains, experts warn of brutal price hikes, supply-chain chaos, and all-out retaliation. As Trump’s tariffs take aim, one thing is clear: the economic battle lines are drawn—and no ally is safe.
The Presidency of South Africa noted with concern the newly imposed tariffs on South Africa, saying the tariffs serve as a “barrier to trade”.
“Whilst South Africa remains committed to a mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States, unilaterally imposed and punitive tariffs are a concern and serve as a barrier to trade and shared prosperity.
“The tariffs affirm the urgency to negotiate a new bilateral and mutually beneficial trade agreement with the U.S, as an essential step to secure long-term trade certainty,” The Presidency said in a statement on Thursday. –
