SA's struggle with US trade relations

POLITICAL analysts say the South African government is wasting its time in engaging with US President Donald Trump on beneficial trade and investment relations between the two countries.

- MANYANE MANYANE MASHUDU SADIKE

With a 30% tariff expected to be imposed on South African goods by the US at midnight last night, negotiations were still taking place between the two countries regarding the proposed tariffs.

This was after South Africa failed to secure a trade deal with the US last week.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that he had a discussion with Trump on Wednesday.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the two agreed to continue further engagements on bilateral trade matters.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa held a telephone discussion during the morning of August 6, with US President Donald Trump on bilateral trade matters.

“The two leaders undertook to continue with further engagements, recognising the various trade negotiations the US is currently involved in. Respective trade negotiating teams will take forward more detailed discussions,” Magwenya said.