How Trump Is Reshaping South Africa’s Economic and Foreign Policies

South Africa’s government appears to be undergoing a surprising policy shift, with Donald Trump playing an unexpected role. Following a tense Oval Office meeting with Trump, South Africa’s President Ramaphosa appears to have pivoted to pragmatism over ideological orthodoxy. During the meeting, Trump raised some inflammatory claims, many of which have since been debunked. In response, Pretoria proposed a trade deal exchanging US LNG imports for duty-free steel exports. Trump’s assertive stance has also pushed South Africa to reconsider protectionist economic policies and soften its foreign policy tone, especially on Israel. The Democratic Alliance, one of the parties in the country’s coalition government, is seizing the moment to push some of its political agenda. This includes attempts by Solly Malatsi, Minister of Communications, to ease Black ownership rules in tech. Though driven by pressure more than vision, this new strategic realism could reshape the country’s global posture — if it sticks.

SEMAFOR