Trump set to impose 30% tariff on all SA goods

JOHANNESBURG - United States (US) President Donald Trump is set to impose a 30% tariff on all South African goods as he continues with the enforcement of his reciprocal duties.

Trump sent letters to various countries, saying the new tariffs will take effect at the beginning of August.

He told President Cyril Ramaphosa that it's time to move away from the long term and very persistent trade deficits enjoyed by South Africa through non-tariff policies and trade barriers.

Trump, with his 90-day window for tariff negotiations closing, has sent letters to several countries announcing new levies.

In South Africa’s case, attempts to have him walk back a 30% import tax have seemingly not worked out, with the figure set to be the new rate as of August.

Trump, in a letter to Ramaphosa, said the relationship between the two countries has been far from reciprocal, claiming that the new tariffs form part of a move towards more balanced and fair trade.

READ: Trump says new tariff deadline 'not 100 percent firm'

The US president also said an unsustainable trade deficit against his country is a threat to both its economy and national security.

And in typical Trump style, he’s also added a caveat – threatening to increase the levies, should affected countries retaliate.

Ramaphosa has responded to the letter, disputing the interpretation of the balance of trade between his country and the US.