South Africa plans industrial support and market diversification following US trade decision

South Africa has expressed its disappointment regarding the US decision to terminate the country's eligibility under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) effective January 1, 2027. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition announced plans to bolster affected domestic industries and protect jobs, while actively pursuing new export markets across Africa, China, India, and Europe. Minister Parks Tau noted that Pretoria had engaged in extensive negotiations to address US concerns, expressing regret that Washington introduced new issues that were not part of the discussions launched in 2025. Despite the setback, South Africa remains committed to fostering commercial ties with the US. Washington justified the exclusion citing concerns over trade barriers, corruption, and national security.