Ramaphosa dares Trump over tariffs: ‘South Africa won’t be bullied’
President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a firm stand against imposed US tariffs, telling Parliament on Tuesday that “South Africa will not be bullied by anyone” as the government intensifies efforts to safeguard the economy and negotiate a better trade deal with Washington.
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President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken a firm stand against imposed US tariffs, telling Parliament that “South Africa will not be bullied by anyone” as the government intensifies efforts to safeguard the economy and negotiate a better trade deal with Washington.
Answering questions in the National Assembly on Tuesday, Ramaphosa responded directly to EFF leader, Julius Malema, who raised concerns over the potential economic damage caused by US president, Donald Trump's trade restrictions.
The President said the government had already dispatched senior officials to the US to engage with lawmakers, business leaders, and the Trump administration on the unfolding trade dispute.
“We will get the best deal for South Africa,” Ramaphosa asserted. “Our trade relationship with the US is historic, but we must act in our own national interest.”
The US is South Africa’s second-largest trading partner, with total trade valued in the billions.
South Africa exports minerals, motor vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural products to Washington, while importing goods such as petroleum, poultry, aircraft parts, medical instruments, and vehicles.
According to the president, over 600 US companies are invested in South Africa, and 22 South African companies operate in the US making South Africa the largest African investor in the American economy.
In the country, the cabinet has approved a local economic support package to assist businesses directly affected by tariffs.
This includes funding from the Localisation Support Fund and an export competitiveness program focused on short- to medium-term relief, such as working capital and upgrading equipment.
Ramaphosa stressed that the tariff setback also presents an opportunity to diversify. “We are accelerating efforts to open new export markets, including Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East,” he said, citing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key pillar for future growth.
He added that the government is promoting local procurement—encouraging businesses, consumers, and the state to prioritise South African-made goods.
While reaffirming the importance of US-South Africa relations, Ramaphosa made it clear that Pretoria will not capitulate under pressure.
“This is not a moment for retreat—it is a moment for resilience. Our sovereignty and economic interests are not negotiable.”
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
IOL Politics