Cabinet has intensified efforts to address looming US tariffs while advancing a five-year trade pact with China, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni confirmed during a media briefing in Pretoria on Thursday.
The government seeks to mitigate the impact of 30% US tariffs set to take effect today, with President Cyril Ramaphosa initiating direct talks with US counterpart President Donald Trump to negotiate a revised trade framework.
South Africa strategy combines diplomatic engagement with domestic support measures for industries hit by the tariffs, including steel and manufacturing sectors.
An Export Support Desk will launch immediately to assist affected companies, alongside a Localisation Support Fund and working capital facilities under the Export and Competitiveness Support Programme.
The Competition Commission will finalise a draft Block Exemption for exporters by the end of week to enable industry collaboration, with details published on www.thedtic.gov.za.
Parallel to these efforts, Deputy President Paul Mashatile secured preliminary support for a 2025–2029 South Africa-China Trade and Investment Package during a July working visit.
The agreement targets expanded trade in 100 priority products, Chinese investments in steel, automotive, and renewable energy sectors, and skills development for rail and digital industries.
A permanent South African pavilion at China Supply Chain Expo aims to position the country as a gateway to African markets.
“Our focus remains on safeguarding jobs and building long-term resilience through diversified trade partnerships,” Ntshavheni stated, emphasising ongoing presidential-level negotiations with the US and accelerated implementation of export-boosting measures.
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