South Africa Seeks Africa, Asia Markets after US Imposes 30% Export Tariff

South Africa is responding to the 30% tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on its exports by actively seeking to diversify its trade markets across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. The tariffs, targeting key sectors such as agriculture, automotive, and textiles, threaten to cost tens of thousands of jobs and are expected to reduce South Africa's GDP growth by about 0.2%. Despite ongoing negotiations and offers to increase imports of U.S. liquefied natural gas and investments, the tariffs took effect with no immediate relief. The South African government is scaling up trade missions, expanding the National Exporter Development Programme, and establishing an Export Support Desk to assist businesses in finding alternative markets and preparing for export opportunities. Officials emphasize that diversification will complement rather than replace the U.S. market, which remains a significant trading partner, but acknowledge the challenge ahead as new markets will require substantial time and resources to develop. The tariffs also coincide with political tensions between the two countries over issues such as affirmative action policies and international legal disputes, adding complexity to trade relations.