South Africa seeks US tariff exemption

South Africa has requested the United States to exempt its exports from proposed 12.5% tariffs linked to a Section 301 investigation into forced labor in imports. A delegation led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition appeared before the United States — United States Trade Representative in Washington, arguing that South Africa has robust laws prohibiting forced labor and that key exports like platinum group metals, vehicles, citrus, seafood, wine, and nuts are not produced using forced labor. The request comes amid strained trade relations, with South Africa also seeking to preserve benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, which is due for renewal by the United States — United States Congress. Trade Minister Parks Tau emphasized continued engagement on the probe and other trade issues.