African Nations Push to Re-negotiate Trump Tariffs as Job-loss Fears Mount

Addis Ababa 10, 2025 (ENA)— African governments are seeking last-minute adjustments to sweeping U.S. tariffs introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump, warning the duties could deepen unemployment across already fragile economies.

South Africa said President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke with Trump ahead of 30% tariffs taking effect on some South African exports, with both leaders agreeing to keep talking.

Pretoria believes a negotiated outcome is still possible despite Trump’s recent criticism of the country.

The Trump administration has also said it halted assistance to South Africa, accusing it of “anti-white” and “anti-American” policies—a characterization Pretoria rejects.

Neighboring Botswana and Lesotho likewise signaled hopes for improved terms.

Lesotho, whose apparel industry supplies brands such as Levi’s to the U.S., saw a threatened 50% tariff cut to 15%, but officials say even that level endangers thousands of factory jobs and small businesses.

The tariffs arrive as months of uncertainty have already disrupted orders and investment, and as U.S. officials insist the measures are necessary despite signs of strain in the American economy.

South Africa's Ramaphosa further said he spoke with Trump as some African nations hope they could still negotiate tariff rates that threaten to increase unemployment in countries already struggling with high rates of joblessness.

The president said he and Trump spoke on Wednesday ahead of steep 30% tariffs coming into effect on some South African exports to the U.S. on Friday. The statement said the two leaders “undertook to continue with further engagements.”

South Africa has said it believes it can still negotiate with the U.S., even after Trump has been especially critical of the country.

The Trump administration said it has stopped aid and assistance to Africa’s most diverse economy over what it calls its anti-white and anti-American policies