In a critical diplomatic exchange, President Cyril Ramaphosa and former U.S. President Donald Trump have agreed to deepen trade discussions, following the implementation of steep U.S. reciprocal tariffs on South African exports.
The conversation, initiated by President Ramaphosa via telephone, comes as 30% tariffs were imposed on several key South African goods entering the U.S. market—raising concerns about the future of bilateral trade.
Despite the tensions, both leaders acknowledged the broader scope of ongoing trade negotiations between their nations and expressed a shared interest in finding constructive solutions. The talks signal an attempt to steady the economic relationship between South Africa and the United States at a time of mounting global protectionism and shifting alliances.
The outcome of these discussions could shape the future of trade flows, investments, and diplomatic cooperation between the two countries in the months to come.
