Steel and aluminium sectors brace for impact as US doubles tariff charges

SA forced to adapt to new challenges as President Trump announces fresh round of import tariffs

- BANELE GININDZA

SOUTH Africa must adapt to new challenges as US President Donald Trump announced a fresh round of import tariff hikes of up to 50% on steel and aluminium this week, compounding the effects of April’s 25% increase, according to stakeholders and analysts.

The local sector is still grappling with disrupted global supply chains, rising manufacturing costs, and reduced competitiveness for South African automotive products in the US market.

Many South African businesses are now exploring alternative markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East to reduce reliance on the US. The announcement came as South Africa and other countries trading with the US benefited from a 90-day tariff suspension beyond the 10% base tariff, providing a window for strategic negotiations to safeguard key exports and explore new trade avenues during a recent meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and his US counterpart.