South Africa is looking to new export markets in Asia – particularly China – and Europe to diversify away from the United States, as its relations with Washington rapidly deteriorate.
America boycotted last weekend’s Group of 20 summit in Johannesburg after Washington accused Pretoria of persecuting Afrikaner farmers, labelling the situation “white genocide” – a claim the South African government strongly denies.
On Wednesday the situation escalated, with US President Donald Trump saying Pretoria would not be invited to next year’s G20 talks in Miami. South Africa called the move “regrettable” and based on “misinformation and distortions” and said it had a right to attend as a sovereign, founding member of the G20.
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It comes two months after a US trade initiative with Africa – the African Growth and Opportunity Act – expired, ending duty-free access for many South African exports.
In addition, a 30 per cent tariff imposed on South African exports by the US has meanwhile severely hurt farms, vehicle manufacturers and car parts makers, as well as mining companies.
South Africa is responding by pursuing new markets in Asia and Europe to diversify exports and attract investment.
