South Africa Sends Delegation to US for Trade Talks Amid Tariff Dispute

CAPE TOWN — Tuesday

On Tuesday, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed senior officials were dispatched to the United States to prepare for formal trade negotiations. This follows weeks of escalating tensions after the US imposed steep tariffs on South African imports.

The delegation—including representatives from the Presidency and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition—is meeting US administration officials, lawmakers, and business leaders in New York and Washington. (Ramaphosa)

The move responds to former US President Donald Trump’s decision last month to impose a 30% tariff on South African goods. The White House cited unresolved trade disagreements and “a lack of cooperation from Pretoria”. (White House statement)

South African officials claim they submitted multiple proposals to prevent the tariffs, including a revised trade deal a month ago. Washington has not formally responded. (SA government) Ramaphosa told parliament the tariff decision came “despite South Africa’s consistent efforts to negotiate in good faith”. (Ramaphosa)

“We are preparing for further formal negotiations… which should be taking place in just a few days,” Ramaphosa said. The US Trade Representative (USTR) has not specified negotiation dates or topics. (Ramaphosa and USTR)

Ramaphosa identified critical minerals such as rare earths, platinum, and lithium as central to SA’s strategy. He stressed the country seeks value-added trade: “Even as we may well want to export the critical minerals, we want them to leave the shores of South Africa as finished products.” (Ramaphosa)

Disputes occur amid wider diplomatic strains. Trump’s refugee programme for white South Africans—based on unverified claims of racial persecution—has been opposed by Pretoria. US officials have also criticised SA’s affirmative action laws. (South African government and US officials)

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen suggested addressing these concerns may be necessary to secure tariff relief. (Steenhuisen)

As talks approach, South Africa aims to protect export sectors while the US maintains “America First” tariffs. Resolution remains uncertain amid economic pressures.