South Africa-China trade rises nearly 24 percent after tariff deal
Agricultural exports to China climbed more than 35 percent as South Africa sought new markets amid strained relations with the United States.
Trade between South Africa and China totaled almost US$15 billion between May and August, nearly 24 percent higher than a year earlier. The increase followed China’s introduction in May of a temporary arrangement removing tariffs on eligible African exports.
China’s ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, said South African exports to China increased nearly 25 percent, reaching US$5.3 billion. Imports of Chinese goods rose 23 percent to US$9.47 billion. Agricultural shipments from South Africa to China were worth nearly US$500 million over the period, an increase of more than 35 percent.
At the briefing, South Africa’s Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau encouraged businesses to use the tariff-free arrangement. He said the government was continuing talks to give exporters longer-term certainty while safeguarding domestic industries.
South Africa is seeking to expand its export markets as relations with the United States deteriorate and possible trade barriers loom. Washington has prolonged the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which provides duty-free treatment, until 2028, but South Africa faces possible exclusion. US President Donald Trump has criticized several of the country’s domestic and foreign policies.
