Trump's 30% SA tariffs: Citrus, macadamia farmers will feel the brunt, says Agri SA
US President Donald Trump has unleashed a new set of trade tariffs on the world.
Crates of oranges. Wikimedia Commons/Dietmar Rabich
702's John Perlman talks to Johann Kotzé, CEO of Agri SA.
US President Donald Trump's 'liberation day' announcement included a global 10% tariff on all imports, along with higher rates for several nations, including South Africa.
All South African exports to the US will be slapped with tariffs of at least 30%.
John Perlman asks Agri SA CEO Johann Kotzé about the impact this will have on our agriculture industry.
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What is important to consider is that while this might not be felt that badly in terms of South Africa's total agricultural export package, certain industries will be particularly affected.
"I think the largest one is citrus, then you have grapes... Tree nuts, particularly macadamias, are a big one, and then some root vegetables."
Johann Kotzé , CEO - Agri SA
"If you look at the percentage of the commodity that's exported, macadamia nuts are by far the greatest. Around 20% go to the US and a 30% tariff will have a huge impact there."
Johann Kotzé , CEO - Agri SA
Kotzé is still hopeful that a reset of our relationship with Washington could deliver a better outcome.
"The fight is not dead... Our first strategy in agriculture is trade negotiations - you can go back and negotiate."
Johann Kotzé , CEO - Agri SA
To hear more, listen to the interview audio at the top of the article