Cushion to US tariff blow

The decision by US President Donald Trump to impose a 30% tariff on certain South African imports is more than a trade technicality – it's a blow to an already fragile economic relationship.

- Mandla Mthembu

For many South Africans, especially those in agriculture, manufacturing and mining, this move feels like a punch to the gut. But while the tariff hike – which takes effect on 1 August – is a setback, it should also serve as a wake-up call for South Africa to reassess its global trade strategy and take decisive, calculated action.

Let's be clear: the US is within its rights to protect its industries, but the rationale behind this tariff is not clear.

Some say it's about trade imbalances; others suggest it's tied to South Africa's non-aligned stance on global conflicts, especially the Russia-Ukraine war, as well as its affiliation with the BricsPlus bloc. Others say this action is less about trade and more about a show of power by the Trump administration.

Whatever the reason, the implications are real. Jobs are on the line, exports are at risk and investor confidence is under pressure.