Ramaphosa struggles to mend fences with Trump

July 16, 2025

The Trump administration is significantly distancing itself from South Africa through diplomatic rejections, meeting boycotts, and threats of punitive tariffs. Tensions escalated when the US reportedly denied a diplomatic visa to President Ramaphosa's special envoy Mcebisi Jonas, who was appointed to improve deteriorating US-South Africa relations. The US has boycotted South Africa in global forums like the G20, with high-ranking officials skipping meetings hosted by South Africa.

Who is affected

South African citizens, particularly the 100,000 workers who could lose jobs if tariffs are implemented
South Africa's agricultural sector, which would be hard hit by the proposed tariffs
Mcebisi Jonas, whose appointment as special envoy was reportedly rejected by the US
President Cyril Ramaphosa's government, facing diplomatic isolation
South African economy, already struggling with 32.9% unemployment
MTN, the mobile phone giant whose non-executive chairman is embroiled in this diplomatic issue

What action is being taken

The US is boycotting South Africa in global bodies like the G20
US officials are refusing to attend meetings hosted by South Africa, sending lower-ranking representatives instead
The Trump administration is threatening to impose 30% tariffs on South African goods from August 1
South Africa is being "more circumspect" in its responses to US actions against Iran
South Africa is attempting to strengthen ties with other countries as US relations deteriorate
The US has cut aid to South Africa and slashed funding for the Pepfar HIV/AIDS program

Why it matters

South Africa stands to lose its relationship with its second-biggest trading partner
The potential 30% tariffs could lead to approximately 100,000 job losses in a country already facing 32.9% unemployment
The diplomatic freeze affects South Africa's ability to advance developing nations' interests through its G20 chairmanship
This represents a significant shift from historically strong US-South Africa relations that persisted despite policy differences with previous administrations
The breakdown affects traditional channels of communication and engagement between the nations
South Africa's agricultural sector faces particular harm, despite Trump's expressed support for Afrikaner farmers

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC