South African authorities have warned that the new 30% tariffs imposed by the United States on most South African imports, set to take effect on August 8, could threaten around 30,000 jobs in the country.
These tariffs represent the third-highest rate imposed on any U.S. trading partner after China and the European Union, increasing uncertainty over the future of South Africa’s export industries.
Simphiwe Hamilton, Director-General of South Africa’s Department of Trade and Industry, stated that these estimates are based on consultations with affected sectors, including automotive and agriculture.
This comes as the South African economy struggles with a high unemployment rate of 32.9%, with youth unemployment reaching 46.1%.
President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that the country is working to adapt to these measures while maintaining dialogue with Washington to ensure continued access for South African goods to U.S. markets.
He also highlighted the government’s efforts to diversify markets and boost intra-African trade to mitigate the negative impact of the tariffs.
It is worth noting that South Africa has offered to purchase U.S. liquefied natural gas and open investment opportunities in the mining sector as part of efforts to avoid these tariffs, but negotiations have yet to yield an agreement.
