South Africa's Ramaphosa speaks to Trump, trade teams to talk further

U.S. President meets South African President in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 21, 2025
Reuters

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke by phone with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss bilateral trade, with both leaders agreeing that their respective negotiating teams would continue more detailed talks, Ramaphosa’s office announced on Thursday.

Despite months of effort, South Africa was unable to finalise a trade agreement with the U.S. before Trump’s deadline, resulting in a 30% tariff on South African exports to America.

“The two leaders agreed to maintain ongoing engagement, acknowledging the range of trade negotiations currently involving the United States,” the statement said.

Negotiating teams from both countries will now carry forward the detailed discussions.

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