Ramaphosa Challenges Trump’s 30% Tariff Claim Over Trade Data Accuracy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has pushed back against US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a sweeping 30% tariff on South African exports, calling it a misrepresentation of actual trade data. Ramaphosa’s office argued that most US goods imported into South Africa already enter duty-free, with an average tariff rate of just 7.6%. While Pretoria emphasized its commitment to constructive trade relations, it criticized the US’s unilateral approach. The tariff, effective August 1, stems from Trump’s claim of long-standing trade imbalances and barriers. Negotiations continue, with South Africa awaiting a formal US trade framework as announced during the June 23 US-Africa Summit. Nevertheless, Ramaphosa urged local industries to diversify and build resilience in response to global trade shifts.

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