US hits SA with 12.5% tariffs in sweeping announcement affecting 60 countries
The US administration has imposed new 12.5% tariffs on goods from 60 countries, including South Africa, citing concerns over forced labor enforcement. While some raw materials and food products are exempted, the move marks a continued effort to implement broad trade restrictions.
Why it matters
Significant impact on global trade relations and supply chain costs for various industries.
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The Trump administration on Friday imposed new tariffs of 10% and 12.5% on goods from 60 trading partners, including the European Union (EU) and China, over allegations of lax enforcement of forced labour bans, just as a temporary 10% global tariff expired, Reuters reported.
South Africa is among the countries hit with 12.5%, although certain products are exempted. Effectively, it increases tariffs from the current global tariff of 10% to 12.5%.
Exempt foods include oranges, fruit juices, nuts, guavas, mangoes and papayas.
Products also excluded from the additional tariff include precious metals such as gold and platinum, as well as other minerals such as copper and manganese ore. Iron and steel products have also been exempted.
Cars and car parts, as well as aluminium, remain subject to the 25% import tariffs instituted in April 2025.
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