The South African presidency said on Thursday that the new American tariffs underscored the need to negotiate a new bilateral trade agreement with Washington in order to ensure long-term trade security.

US President Donald Trump imposed a 30% rate on South Africa. Global markets were suspended on Wednesday to the highly anticipated announcements of Donald Trump, who took his trade war to the next level with new tariffs against US trading partners. From the White House, the American president finally announced “reciprocal customs duties” with a minimum of 10% and 20% taxes on imports from the European Union. These measures will come into force on 5 and 9 April. All the information and reactions to follow live below.

South African exports of vehicles and parts to the United States are estimated at over $2 billion and could be severely affected by these taxes. “While South Africa remains committed to mutually beneficial trade relationships with the United States, unilateral and punitive tariffs are concerning and a barrier to trade and shared prosperity,” the president's office added