Pretoria: South Africa’s Trade Minister, Parks Tau, has engaged in discussions with United States Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, with the goal of negotiating a reduction in the high tariffs imposed by the United States.
According to Voice of Nigeria, a statement from the Minister’s office on Friday highlighted that these discussions are part of continued efforts by Africa’s largest economy to achieve more favorable trade terms with the United States. This move comes after U.S. President Donald Trump implemented a 30% tariff on imports from South Africa last month. The tariff imposition followed multiple unsuccessful attempts by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration to secure a trade agreement.
The 30% tariff is the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa and poses a significant threat to South Africa’s job market, with the potential to cause tens of thousands of job losses. This development comes at a time when South Africa’s economic growth is sluggish, and unemployment rates remain above 30%.
Minister Tau described the meeting with the USTR as cordial and constructive, focusing on matters of mutual interest. The session was part of a series of intensive discussions over three days by senior officials from both sides. Both parties have agreed on a roadmap to guide future engagements aimed at reaching a conclusion to the process.
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has not yet responded to requests for comments regarding the meeting between Greer and Tau.