Trump Tariffs Backlash

CHAMBER: SA'S STATUS AS AFRICAN GATEWAY FOR US COMPANIES AT RISK

- Ciaran Ryan

SA's position as a gateway for US companies into Africa is now at risk, says the South African Chamber of Commerce in the USA (Saccusa), which expressed "grave concern" at the SA government's inability to secure a trade deal or exemption from the 30% tariffs imposed on a wide range of goods.

The sectors hardest hit by the new tariffs—which kicked in last Thursday—are manufacturing, citrus, wine, steel, automotive parts, agricultural processing, and textiles.

Saccusa is the latest of several business bodies to criticize the government's handling of the trade talks.

In a statement issued last week, the chamber said it had received reports from exporters experiencing cancelled contracts, delayed shipments, and rising warehousing costs due to new customs hurdles and diminished price competitiveness in the US market.

"Small and medium-sized South African-owned businesses operating in the US have also reported being forced to reassess their viability in light of reduced margins," the chamber's statement said.

"Saccusa is actively working to connect these companies with business sustainability and trade advisory services, as well as new buyer networks and alternative market entry points in the Americas and beyond."