SA’s commitment to China worked a trick as US tariffs play falters

SOUTH Africa’ support of the one-China policy appears to be reaping reward for the republic, not only from an economic point of view butalso from the standpoint of positioning it as a kingmaker in the broader geopolitical tussle between the Asian powerhouse and the US.

- JOHN HARVEY

With the relationship between Pretoria and Washington having soured due to US President Donald Trump's mindless imposition of a 30% tariff on South African exports, China has spotted the opportunity to shore up its relationship with the nation and others on the continent.

Earlier this year, President Xi Jinping confirmed zero-tariff treatment for 100% tarifflines for the 53 African nations with which it enjoys diplomatic ties.

China’ growing economic influence in South Africa is sizeable. In 2024 alone, China invested $13.21 billion in South Africa, 92% of which was in the form of manufactured goods. Chinese carmakers Chery and GWM also intend assembling vehicles in South Africa, where their brands’ market share is soaring annually.

The Eastern powerhouse is also investing heavily in the country’s infrastructure, creating hundreds of local jobs in the process.

No greater example can be found than in the Eastern Cape, where the China Communications Construction Company is involved in a joint venture to build the Mtentu Bridge which, when completed, will be one of the longest main-span balanced cantilever bridges in the world.

South Africa, a BRICS member, has made no secret of its allegiance to China as titanic geopolitical shifts unfold.

Earlier this year, South Africa officially withdrew its recognition of Taiwan's representative office in the capital of Pretoria.