US Tariff Increase on SA Exports

Albert Johnson
Jul 9
3 min read

South Africa is part of some qualifying African Countries whom form part of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) agreement with the USA. You would have seen in the news that the USA has imposed a 30% Tarif increase on South African Exports.

What does it mean and how does it impact the South African economy, investors and our growth? Lets unpack it..

What is the AGOA Treaty?

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a trade agreement enacted by the U.S. in 2000. It was designed to boost economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa by giving qualifying countries duty-free access to the U.S. market for thousands of products.

Think of it as a trade boost to help developing economies integrate into the global market.

South Africa has been one of the key beneficiaries of AGOA, thanks to its relatively advanced infrastructure and diverse export base. But AGOA isn’t automatic—it comes with conditions, including upholding human rights, maintaining a market-based economy, and supporting U.S. strategic interests. If the U.S. deems a country to be acting contrary to these interests, they can revoke or restrict access to AGOA benefits. And that’s where we now find ourselves, US Tariff Increase on SA

What does South Africa Export to the United States?

In 2023, South Africa exported around R180 billion worth of goods to the U.S, with a significant chunk entering tariff-free under AGOA. The new tariffs will hit sectors like steel, aluminum, citrus, wine and vehicles the hardest—industries that provide tens of thousands of local jobs.

Picture the value chain. it is not just about the final export which costs more, but the impact is far reaching, from various suppliers and role-players who supply the value chain.

South Africa's exports to the United States are diverse and include:

Automobiles and automotive components
Minerals (especially platinum, manganese, and gold)
Wine and agricultural products
Steel and aluminum
Clothing and textiles

Why is the USA Imposing Tariffs Now?

The AGOA agreement is a renewable agreement which is set to be renewed in September 2025. Although the USA has indicated that the Tariff will commence in August of 2025.

Without going into politics on the subject, from an objective view, it would be the prerogative of two parties to relook agreement's which is mutually beneficial between them. And of course these are reviewable and renewable. Analysts point to a few likely reasons being:

Geopolitical tensions, including South Africa’s perceived alignment with countries like Russia and China.
Concerns over South Africa’s foreign policy neutrality, especially its participation in military exercises with BRICS allies.
Domestic U.S. political pressure, with American steel and manufacturing unions lobbying for more protectionist policies.

What does this mean for the South African Economy?

Its not good news at all. Earlier this year when the first hint at tariff increases were announced but then stayed until now, the markets reacted to it, and then when it was stayed it recovered. But some economic data indicate that:

1. Exports Will Take a Hit

Many South African products will become less competitive in the U.S. due to higher prices from the new tariffs. This could lead to lower export volumes, hurting revenue for local manufacturers and agricultural producers.

2. Job Losses in Key Sectors

Industries like steel, wine, fruit farming, and automotive manufacturing could face retrenchments, especially if U.S. buyers look elsewhere for cheaper suppliers.

3. Rand Volatility

Any negative sentiment around trade and foreign policy tends to spill over into currency markets. If investors perceive South Africa as politically unstable or economically threatened, the rand could weaken, increasing inflationary pressure.

4. Pressure on SA's Global Trade Reputation

Losing AGOA benefits—or being hit with major tariffs—could damage South Africa’s standing as a reliable global trading partner. This might have ripple effects in future trade negotiations with other countries.

In Closing

Markets are influenced by various things that happen in the political arena, but South Africans are some of the most innovative and resilient people. We have been through many obstacles and changes, and we will get through this as well.

Stay safe, and warm.

Cheers for now.