Pretoria: South Africa on Monday asserted that it poses 'no trade threat' to the US economy and its national security. The statement emphasized the country's commitment to fostering trade relationships that enhance value addition and industrialization, rather than replicating extractive colonial-era trade models.

According to Anadolu Agency, the South African Foreign Ministry's statement highlighted that the nation's exports complement rather than compete with US producers. These exports provide vital industrial inputs and counter-seasonal agricultural goods, effectively filling market needs without displacing domestic products. The statement underscored South Africa's role as both a trading partner and a major investor in the US, with South African companies contributing to US job support. Additionally, over 600 American firms in South Africa are noted for their role in boosting industrial growth and employment.

The South African Foreign Ministry further pointed out that the US-South Africa trade deficit calculation fails to account for the US services surplus and the complementary nature of their trade and investment relationships. The statement expressed a commitment to preserving and growing these mutually beneficial ties.

From August 8, the US, which stands as South Africa's third-largest trading partner after the EU and China, is set to impose unilateral 30% tariffs on South African imports. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the ongoing changes in the international trading system and the importance of resilience. He warned that complacency would not serve South Africa well and reaffirmed the government's commitment to engaging with the US and building trade resilience. Ramaphosa urged South Africa to adapt to the 'increasingly turbulent headwinds' in global trade.