President Cyril Ramaphosa has responded to the recent announcement by US President Donald Trump regarding the unilateral imposition of a 30% trade tariff on South African goods. The South African government confirmed it received official communication from the United States on July 7, 2025, outlining the decision, which affects several countries.
The Presidency has strongly contested the basis for the tariff, describing it as rooted in a disputed interpretation of the trade balance between the two nations. According to South Africa, the data used to justify the tariffs does not accurately reflect the current trade dynamics. In a statement issued by the Presidency, it was noted that 77% of US goods enter the South African market duty-free, and the average tariff on imported goods entering South Africa stands at 7.6%. Moreover, 56% of all goods imported into South Africa do so at a 0% Most Favoured Nation tariff.
The President emphasized South Africa’s commitment to resolving the matter through diplomatic engagement. He acknowledged the US government’s indication that the 30% tariff is subject to change pending the conclusion of negotiations between the two nations. The most recent engagement between South Africa and the United States took place during the US-Africa Summit in Luanda on June 23, 2025, where South Africa was informed of a proposed template for future trade engagement with sub-Saharan African countries. While the template has yet to be officially provided to the South African delegation, President Ramaphosa has directed the country’s negotiating team to urgently re-engage with US officials, using a Framework Deal previously submitted on May 20, 2025, as the basis for dialogue.
This Framework addresses the core issues raised by the US, including South Africa’s alleged trade surplus, claims of unfair trade practices, and the need for greater reciprocity. President Ramaphosa has also called on government negotiators and South African businesses to accelerate efforts to diversify trade partnerships and strengthen resilience within global supply chains.
President Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to building a fair, inclusive, and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the United States and will continue to work towards a resolution that upholds the principles of fairness, transparency and economic cooperation.
