- South African US Tariff Response Strategy: South Africa has announced a five-point plan to counter the impact of the 30% tariff imposed by the US, focusing on trade negotiations, market diversification, and supporting domestic industries.
- Revised US Trade Offer and Market Access: The government has finalized market access for American agricultural products like poultry, blueberries, and pork, with shipments planned from several US states, while also consulting on tariffs to address trade imbalances.
- Economic Support Initiatives: An Economic Response Package includes assistance programs for exporters, a localisation fund, and measures to protect jobs, aiming to bolster the economy amid trade tensions.
The South African government has announced a comprehensive five-point plan to counter the impact of the 30% unilateral tariff imposed by the United States on 7 August 2025. The strategy focuses on securing a trade deal with the US, diversifying export markets, supporting affected businesses, defending domestic industries, and driving local demand.
Cabinet has approved a revised offer to the US, addressing concerns raised in the 2025 National Trade Estimates Report. Market access for American poultry, blueberries, and pork has been finalised, with shipments set to arrive in two weeks from Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Alabama. The government is also consulting with industry and the Southern African Customs Union on possible tariff adjustments to address US concerns over trade imbalances with the European Union.
An Economic Response Package has been endorsed, including an Export Support Desk that has already assisted 23 companies, a Localisation Support Fund, and the Export and Competitiveness Support Programme to provide working capital and equipment financing. Measures to protect jobs, including collaboration with the Department of Employment and Labour, are also being rolled out.
South Africa is accelerating market diversification, targeting the AfCFTA region, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and India. Efforts include deploying trade and agricultural attachés, boosting export certification, and aligning biosecurity standards with new market requirements.
The plan also includes trade defence measures such as anti-dumping and anti-subsidy actions to protect domestic industries from import surges. Proudly South Africa will expand its Market Access Platform to connect local producers with corporate and retail buyers, boosting domestic sales while developing export potential.
