Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the correspondence from the United States (US) President Donald Trump on the unilateral imposition of a 30% trade tariff against South Africa.

According to South African Government News Agency, in a letter addressed to the President on Monday, President Trump announced that he would subject imports from South Africa to new 30% tariffs that would take effect from 1 August 2025. This tariff is based on a particular interpretation of the trade balance between the two nations, which is currently under review by negotiating teams from both countries.

The Presidency stated that South Africa disagrees with the 30% tariff, asserting that it does not accurately reflect available trade data. South Africa’s data indicates that the average tariff for imported goods entering the country is 7.6%, and 56% of goods enter South Africa tariff-free. Additionally, 77% of US goods enter the South African market without any duty.

South Africa is committed to pursuing a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship with the US and welcomes the possibility of modifying the 30% tariff following further negotiations. Recent discussions between the two countries took place at the US-Africa Summit in Luanda on 23 June 2025, where South Africa was informed of a new US engagement template for sub-Saharan Africa trade matters.

President Ramaphosa has instructed the South African negotiating team to urgently engage with the US using a Framework Deal submitted in May 2025. This deal addresses key concerns, including the alleged trade surplus, unfair trade practices, and lack of reciprocity from the US.

The Presidency also noted that South Africa is among several countries that received the tariff communication on 7 July 2025. President Ramaphosa encourages South African trade negotiators and companies to enhance diversification efforts to strengthen global supply chains and the national economy.