SA Launches Export Support Measures to Counter 30% US Tariff Shock

In a decisive response to a looming trade crisis, South Africa's Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has rolled out a comprehensive support strategy to cushion exporters from the impact of a steep 30% tariff imposed by the United States on South African goods, effective 1 August 2025.

A Tariff Blow to Strategic Sectors

The tariff hike, unilaterally imposed by US President Donald Trump, marks a dramatic escalation in trade tensions between the two countries and threatens South Africa’s export competitiveness in critical sectors such as automotive manufacturing, agro-processing, steel, and chemicals.

According to Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau, the new duties represent a "direct threat" to the country's export capacity and the thousands of jobs that depend on continued access to the American market.

“The stakes are high and we must respond decisively to ensure our export industries remain resilient, competitive, and globally integrated,” Tau warned in a statement issued on Thursday.

Strategic Interventions Unveiled

In response, the dtic has launched a series of urgent measures under a broader strategy to mitigate the fallout from the tariff hike and safeguard South Africa’s trade interests.

Central to the intervention is the creation of a new Export Support Desk, which is now operational and dedicated to assisting South African businesses affected by the tariff increase. This desk is positioned to serve as a one-stop hub for exporters, providing:

• Real-time updates on trade developments

• Tailored advice on diversifying exports to new markets

• Guidance on foreign market entry and compliance procedures

• Linkages to South African Embassies and High Commissions around the world

Minister Tau emphasized that the support desk is designed not only as a crisis response tool but as a long-term asset for promoting export diversification across Africa, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and other strategic trade partners.

Presidential Diplomacy and Global Context

The US tariff decision was officially communicated in July via a letter from President Trump to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Trump cited unspecified trade imbalances as justification for the move, triggering concern within South Africa’s business and political circles.

President Ramaphosa, while reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to its trade relations with the US, has vowed to explore diplomatic avenues to reverse the decision while intensifying efforts to expand into other markets.

The move comes at a time when global trade dynamics are being reshaped by shifting geopolitics, protectionist policies, and regional trade realignments—making it imperative for South Africa to strengthen its export resilience and adapt swiftly.

Exporters Urged to Engage

The dtic is encouraging all affected exporters to directly engage with the Export Support Desk to access advisory services and stay updated on evolving developments. Regular updates will also be provided on the dtic’s website.

Tau underscored the government’s commitment: “We are working with urgency and resolve to implement real and practical interventions that defend jobs and position South Africa competitively in a shifting global landscape.”

Export Support Desk Contact Information

For US-related exports and market enquiries:

• Ms. Nthatisi Moraloge 📧 NMoraloge@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-1125

• Mr. Karabo Modimokwane 📧 KModimokwane@thedtc.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-1164

For African market enquiries:

• Ms. Zamaswazi Nkosi 📧 ZPNkosi@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-3533

• Mr. Mncedisi Madela 📧 MMadela@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-5659

• Ms. Sithembile Shongwe 📧 SLShongwe@thedtic.gov.za

• Ms. Sibongimpilo Mashatola 📧 SMashatola@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-5507

For ASEAN and Asia market enquiries:

• Ms. Meresina Ranphabana 📧 MRanphabana@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-5918

• Ms. Mundzhedzi Mahosi 📧 MMahosi@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-5645

• Ms. Ledile Bambo 📧 LBambo@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-1997

• Mr. Kenneth Malatsi 📧 MMahosi@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-1061

For European market enquiries:

• Ms. Hloniphile Nkiwane 📧 HNkiwane@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-3496

• Mr. Seth Pule 📧 SPule@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-3087

For Middle Eastern market enquiries:

• Mr. Waseem Rinquest 📧 WRinquest@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-5863

• Ms. Mpho Sebatana 📧 MSebatana@thedtic.gov.za ☎️ (012) 394-3415

Exporters are urged to act swiftly to ensure continuity of trade operations and explore support services for diversifying beyond the US market in light of the 30% tariff now in force.