South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a strong rebuttal to US President Donald Trump after the latter announced a steep 30% tariff on South African imports to the United States. The move came as part of Trump’s latest warning to nations aligned with BRICS — the economic bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Trump’s controversial move has sparked diplomatic tensions, particularly after he announced that countries supporting what he called “anti-American policies” would face additional 10% tariffs on top of existing duties. South Africa, however, was singled out for a much higher 30% levy, placing its trade relationship with the US under serious strain.
Ramaphosa Calls the Move “Disappointing”
Speaking from the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, President Ramaphosa expressed his deep disappointment over the US administration’s stance. “It is really disappointing that when there is such a very positive collective manifestation such as BRICS, there should be others who see it in a negative light and want to punish those who participate,” he said.
Ramaphosa emphasized that BRICS was formed to promote cooperation and collective progress, not to provoke confrontation. He stated, “There should never be vengeance, retribution against countries seeking cooperation in the interests of humanity.”
His words echo growing concern among BRICS leaders about the increasing tendency of the United States to use economic pressure as a geopolitical tool.
Trump Defends the Tariff in Letter
Trump, in a formal letter released to the public, claimed that the tariff was necessary to address the trade deficit between the US and South Africa. “Starting on August 1, 2025, we will charge South Africa a Tariff of only 30% on any and all South African products sent into the United States,” Trump wrote.
He added that the tariff was significantly lower than what would be required to balance the trade gap. “Please understand that the 30% number is far less than what is needed to eliminate the Trade Deficit disparity we have with your country.”
The letter attempted to strike a diplomatic tone, calling it a “Great Honor” to continue trade relations, but the impact of the tariffs will likely have long-term effects on South Africa’s exports, especially in sectors like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
South Africa Vows Diplomatic Negotiation
Despite the aggressive economic move, Ramaphosa remains open to dialogue. “South Africa will continue with its diplomatic efforts towards a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the US,” read an official statement from the South African presidency.
Ramaphosa also noted that the 30% tariff is subject to modification, depending on the outcome of upcoming trade negotiations. He described the tariff not as a final decision but as a part of a process where both sides can work toward a fairer agreement.
This measured response suggests that South Africa is attempting to avoid further escalation and is focused on finding a diplomatic resolution that safeguards its economy while preserving international cooperation.
A BRICS-US Cold Front?
This development adds another layer to the growing global trade tensions between the US and the BRICS alliance. Trump’s tariffs signal a harder stance against multilateral blocs perceived to challenge US influence, while leaders like Ramaphosa continue to push for global cooperation over confrontation.
As the August 1 deadline looms, the world will be watching closely to see if the US and South Africa can reach common ground—or if this is just the beginning of a larger economic and diplomatic standoff.
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