South Africa has intensified diplomatic efforts to prevent a 30-percent tariff hike on its exports to the United States set to take effect on 8 August amid growing concerns over the impact on local industries and jobs.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office confirmed Friday that the government is actively engaging with Washington to negotiate exemptions and mitigate the fallout from the tariff increase, which forms part of a broader set of reciprocal duties imposed by the US on several trading partners.
“South Africa will continue to pursue all diplomatic efforts to safeguard its national interests,” the Presidency said, noting the need to protect jobs and maintain production of high-quality goods destined for global markets.
The new tariffs, announced via a US Executive Order on Thursday, will apply to South African goods entering the US from 8 August 2025.
However, products already in transit before that date and entered for consumption by 5 October 2025 will be subject to previously imposed duties under Executive Order 14257.
Exceptions to the new tariff regime remain in place for certain categories, including copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber, critical minerals, stainless steel scrap and energy products.
In anticipation of the tariff hike, South Africa is finalising a support package for companies vulnerable to the new duties.
The package will include measures to assist affected producers and workers, with details to be announced soon.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition has also established an Export Support Desk to provide updates and advisory services to exporters.
Trade relations between South Africa and the US have faced increasing strain since President Donald Trump came into office in January, with Pretoria arguing that its exports do not threaten US industries and instead contribute to intra-African trade through regional inputs.
The South African government has submitted a Framework Deal to Washington aimed at strengthening mutually beneficial trade and investment ties.
While channels of communication remain open, Pretoria is awaiting a formal invitation from US negotiators to advance discussions, the Presidency said.
JN/APA