Ramaphosa pushes to strengthen US-South Africa trade ties

During his recent visit to the United States, President Cyril Ramaphosa reinforced South Africa’s commitment to deepening its economic ties with the world’s largest economy.

Speaking at the SA-USA Trade and Investment Dialogue in New York on Wednesday, Ramaphosa met with US Chamber of Commerce members and other dignitaries to encourage increased American investment in South Africa.

‘Expand their presence’

The president emphasised that the relationship between the two nations extends beyond traditional diplomacy, describing it as a partnership founded on trade, innovation, and mutual economic benefits.

He affirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that South African businesses expand their presence in the US market.

Currently, more than 600 American companies operate in South Africa, spanning sectors such as aerospace, mining, energy, consumer goods, and financial services.

‘Concern’

While highlighting strong engagement, Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged mounting challenges.

He warned that recent reciprocal tariffs on South African exports have disrupted supply chains and created uncertainty for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic.

Central to his address, Ramaphosa urged the US to renew the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a key trade policy guiding Africa-US commerce for nearly 25 years.

He cautioned that failing to renew AGOA would harm vital industries and disrupt US companies that depend on African imports.

‘Deeper collaboration’

Looking forward, the president urged closer cooperation in emerging sectors such as green energy, digital innovation, and healthcare, calling them “essential pillars” for inclusive and sustainable growth between South Africa and the US.

Ramaphosa’s visit, set against rising global economic uncertainty, highlights his strategic focus on safeguarding and expanding South Africa’s access to international markets, especially its longstanding trade partnership with the United States.