SA, U.S. Leaders Vow to Press On With Trade Talks

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to continue trade negotiations despite tensions over a new 30% U.S. tariff on South African imports, while Pretoria introduces support measures for affected industries.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to maintain dialogue over trade despite escalating tensions following the introduction of a 30% tariff on South African imports by the United States. During a telephone conversation on 6 August, both leaders committed to continuing negotiations through their respective trade teams in an effort to resolve the dispute and find a mutually acceptable solution.

In response to the new tariffs, the South African government has unveiled support measures aimed at protecting industries most vulnerable to the economic impact, particularly the automotive and agricultural sectors, which are critical to employment and growth. Meanwhile, the South African rand showed resilience amid the uncertainty, gaining value thanks to rising gold prices and a weaker U.S. dollar, trading at around 17.69 to the dollar. As both nations prepare for further discussions, hopes remain that diplomacy will ease the strain caused by the tariffs and safeguard bilateral trade relations.