Latest News & Developments
Despite a 0. 6% GDP growth in South Africa, the economy faces challenges with declines in manufacturing and mining.
India is on track to overtake Japan as the fourth-largest economy, presenting significant opportunities for South Africa, its fourth-largest trading partner. High Commissioner Professor Anil Sooklal highlights the strengthening economic ties and the growing interest from South African businesses in India.
In this analysis, Max Boot revisits Graham Allison’s “Thucydides Trap” theory to warn that the US-China trade war could spiral into something far more dangerous. Boot traces historical parallels - from WWI to Pearl Harbor - to show how economic strife often precedes armed conflict. As Trump’s extreme tariffs and China’s retaliatory measures deepen the rift, he argues that only cool heads and diplomatic compromise can steer the world away from disaster.
"The award is in recognition of my work, especially on the education and development front, in promoting relations between our two countries as well as India Africa relations. "
There are no winners in a tariff war, the Chinese president has said.
South Africa faces challenging trade conditions with a 32% tariff on exports to the US under Trump's policies. Political analyst Dr Sandile Swana warns that countries seeking favourable trade terms with the US must accept a subordinate position, urging South Africa to diversify its trading partners and develop local economies instead of relying on Western markets.
Trade Minister Parks Tau has revealed South Africa's strategic response to Donald Trump's 31% tariffs, rejecting a retaliatory approach in favour of export diversification and WTO reform. With agricultural and automotive sectors most affected, the government will implement trade defence mechanisms while seeking new markets across Africa, Asia and beyond before the tariffs take effect next Wednesday.
Trade Minister Parks Tau has revealed South Africa's strategic response to Donald Trump's 31% tariffs, rejecting a retaliatory approach in favour of export diversification and WTO reform. With agricultural and automotive sectors most affected, the government will implement trade defence mechanisms while seeking new markets across Africa, Asia and beyond before the tariffs take effect next Wednesday.
The OECD’s report on the ocean economy reveals a doubling in value from $1 trillion in 1995 to $2 trillion in 2020, yet warns of significant threats from climate change and geopolitical tensions. As the ocean economy could quadruple by 2050, urgent action is needed to secure its future.
South African fashion leaders unite against illicit trade’s economic threat
Industry experts express concerns over the tight deadlines for South Africa's steel tariff review, warning that the proposed measures could lead to significant economic repercussions.
The UN Economic Commission for Africa's latest report urges African governments to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement as a strategic response to global economic fragmentation. The report highlights how the AfCFTA could raise Africa's GDP by 1. 2% by 2045, boost intra-African trade by 45%, and create opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, and digital trade.
Explore how government policies have reshaped South Africa's steel industry, leading to significant trade-offs and economic challenges for major players like ArcelorMittal South Africa.
South Africa's participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) hangs in the balance as tensions with the United States escalate. With potential implications for 250,000 jobs and regional trade relationships, experts predict a likely exit by 2026. Meanwhile, domestic political uncertainties add another layer of complexity to South Africa's economic outlook.
A 50-month delay in processing a simple tariff increase application has led to the closure of South Africa's groundnut roasting industry, highlighting the devastating impact of bureaucratic inefficiency on local businesses.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio labels South Africa's ambassador Ebrahim Rasool as 'persona non grata' after controversial remarks at a MISTRA webinar. This is a transcript on what Rasool said.
South Africa faces increasing pressure to navigate complex diplomatic waters as the US administration intensifies its stance against Iran, threatening both trade relations and diplomatic ties. Experts warn that SA must carefully balance its BRICS commitments with Western relationships.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reveals ambitious plans to transform international trade relations through tariffs, while announcing major banking deregulation initiatives and stricter Iran sanctions. The administration's economic vision focuses on protecting American interests and reforming financial oversight.
Iran’s strategic location makes it a vital hub for global trade corridors, connecting East and West through land, air, and maritime routes. Despite sanctions, its recent BRICS+ membership offers a pathway to economic resilience, enabling infrastructure development, de-dollarised trade, and stronger regional partnerships.
As India and Indonesia mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, their strengthening partnership signals a transformative shift in Global South dynamics. From digital innovation to maritime security, discover how these two democratic powerhouses are crafting a blueprint for regional leadership and sustainable development.
South Africa’s economy is deeply intertwined with the US through trade, investment, and aid. With US-South Africa tensions rising, could South Africa lose its economic advantages?
Global markets stand on edge as Trump's sweeping tariff deadline approaches, threatening to impose 25 percent duties on Canada and Mexico, plus additional levies on China. With less than 24 hours remaining, three of the world's largest economies prepare for potential economic shockwaves.
The imminent withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS marks a historic shift in West African economics, forcing a dramatic reorganisation of traditional trade routes and potentially increasing costs for millions. As these military-led nations forge new alliances, the region faces unprecedented commercial challenges and opportunities.
In a significant development for Russian-Egyptian relations, Presidents Putin and Al-Sisi reviewed progress on transformative joint projects, including Egypt's first nuclear power plant and a strategic Russian industrial zone in the Suez Canal area. The talks highlighted growing bilateral cooperation across trade, agriculture, and humanitarian spheres, marking a new chapter in the countries' partnership
From Europe to South Africa, global leaders have extended olive branches to Donald Trump as he assumes the US presidency for a historic second term. Key allies including Germany's Scholz and Brazil's Lula emphasised strengthening international cooperation and shared democratic values.