Pretoria: South Africa remains committed to finding a resolution with the United States following the recently imposed reciprocal tariffs. This, as government intensifies efforts to protect jobs, support affected companies and diversify trade markets.

According to South African Government News Agency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed members of the media at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, stated that South Africa had already tabled a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade proposal to the United States and that negotiations are ongoing. The President’s comments follow the imposition of a 30% tariff by the United States on all goods imported from South Africa, forming part of a broader US tariff policy affecting multiple trade partners globally.

President Ramaphosa expressed that South Africa is not alone in facing these challenges, noting that many other countries are also involved in discussions and negotiations with the United States. He highlighted the importance of responding to the US tariff proposal, given South Africa’s significant exports to the US, such as vehicles, steel, aluminium, and citrus.

In efforts to mitigate the impact of the tariffs, the South African government is working on a support package for companies likely to be most affected. The approach includes negotiating both globally and at the sectoral level while offering direct support to industries exposed to the US market. The President emphasized the objective of preserving jobs at adversely affected companies.

In addition to addressing the immediate tariff issues, President Ramaphosa noted that South Africa is actively reducing dependence on any single trade partner by encouraging companies to explore new international markets. Efforts are being made to expand international trade, with business delegations accompanying government officials on overseas trips to explore new markets.

Following the briefing, The Presidency released a statement confirming ongoing negotiations with the United States regarding the tariffs, which are expected to come into effect seven days after 1 August 2025. The statement clarified that certain items, such as pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, remain exempt from the new tariffs.

South Africa has submitted a Framework Deal aimed at fostering mutually beneficial trade and investment relations, with all channels of communication open for engagement with the US. Meanwhile, a support package for affected sectors is being finalized, and an Export Support Desk has been established to assist exporters with updates and guidance.

The government reiterated its commitment to pursuing diplomatic efforts to safeguard national interests and maintain the country’s position as a producer of high-quality products for global markets.