US threatens South Africa with 30 per cent tariff on all exports amid BRICS alignment concerns
US President Donald Trump signalled a clear shift in Washington's tone towards BRICS-aligned economies, warning Pretoria that America's patience with trade deficits and non-reciprocal trade arrangements had run out.
In a sharply worded letter addressed to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on July 7, 2025, US President Donald Trump signalled a clear shift in Washington's tone towards BRICS-aligned economies, warning Pretoria that America's patience with trade deficits and non-reciprocal trade arrangements had run out.
The letter, a classic case of carrot-and-stick diplomacy, stated that while the United States remains willing to engage with South Africa, it will now do so only on "more balanced and fair" terms.
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From August 1, Washington will impose a 30 per cent tariff on all South African exports to the US—separate from any existing sectoral tariffs—unless Pretoria opens its markets, eliminates trade barriers, and manufactures more products on US soil.
Though framed as an "invitation" to participate in the US economy, the letter amounts to an ultimatum: either adjust your policies or face protectionist firepower.
"These tariffs are necessary to correct the many years of South Africa's tariff and non-tariff policies and trade barriers," Trump wrote, warning Pretoria that any reciprocal tariff hikes would be met with further US escalation.
The move comes at a time when the United States is becoming increasingly wary of BRICS nations—especially as the bloc expands its geopolitical and economic footprint.
South Africa's hosting of Russian and Chinese naval exercises earlier this year, and its refusal to align with Western positions on Ukraine and Gaza, have drawn ire from Washington.
Analysts say the tariff threat is more than just a trade spat—it's a signal to BRICS and other emerging powers that Washington is prepared to weaponise economic tools to counter what it sees as adversarial alignment.
Pretoria, for its part, has yet to issue an official response.
But with AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act) benefits under review, and with South Africa's economy already under pressure, the stakes are high.
Whether Ramaphosa bends or doubles down will be closely watched across the continent—and beyond.
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