Some Pan-African Parliament members concerned over impact of US trade tariffs on continent
Members of the Pan-African Parliament said the US tariffs will have far-reaching repercussions and will reduce Africa’s access to the US market.
US President Donald Trump delivers remarks on reciprocal tariffs as US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick holds a chart during an event in the Rose Garden entitled "Make America Wealthy Again" at the White House in Washington, DC, on 2 April 2025. Picture: Brendan SMIALOWSKI/AFP
CAPE TOWN - Countries participating in the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand have raised concerns over the impact of US trade tariffs on the continent.
Members of the Pan-African Parliament said the US tariffs will have far-reaching repercussions and will reduce Africa’s access to the US market.
The United States has slapped up to 30% tariffs on over 1,000 African products.
The 5th ordinary sitting of the sixth parliament was also attended by South African representatives like ANC chief whip, Mdumiseni Ntuli, and EFF MP, Vuyani Pambo.
Issa Mardo Djabir, representing Chad, issued a warning against the US tariffs.
"These tariffs are often imposed on key primary products such as cotton, cocoa and other raw materials. Tariffs are trade barriers because they directly affect the competitiveness of the American market thereby reducing Africa’s access to one of the world’s largest markets for African products."