SA in talks with US but actively diversifying trade: Tau

Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau says the government is consolidating partnerships with other countries in a bid to enhance South African trade and investment relations. This is to mitigate the impact of the 30% tariff imposed by the US.

Tau says government is pursuing markets in Asia, the Middle East, and India as there are growing demands, existing negotiations, and a positive reception to South African products.

The Minister says this is a move directly linked to job protection, adding that engagements with the US remain ongoing.

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Meanwhile, the Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, says South African trade with the US poses no threat to American production.

Steenhuisen says the recent US tariffs imposed on South African, Brazilian and Indian goods are not only based on balancing trade, but indicate issues that go beyond tariffs.

He explains that the world is experiencing a new era in which tariffs are being used to deal with issues outside of what would be generally trade concerns.

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Trump Tariffs by SABC Digital News