The Consequences of United States Tariff Increases for South African Exports

Policy Brief 213 The imposition of widespread import tariffs by the United States (US) under President Donald Trump in 2025 has disrupted international trade patterns and poses serious risks to South Africa’s (SA’s) exports. These tariffs build on policies from President Trump’s first term that targeted steel and aluminium products under Section 232.1 These Section 232 tariffs have since been raised to 50% and expanded to also cover additional derivative products. Automobiles and parts (25% tariff), as well as copper products (50% tariff) have also been targeted this year.