CAPE TOWN – President Cyril Ramaphosa has firmly dismissed accusations from Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, who claimed the South African government was “grovelling” to the United States in an attempt to reduce the harsh 30% trade tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
In a heated exchange during a session in the National Assembly on Tuesday, Ramaphosa maintained that the government would not adopt a retaliatory or hostile approach in response to the trade dispute. Instead, he emphasized that South Africa was choosing a path of engagement, diplomacy, and strategic negotiation—a move he described as being in the country’s best long-term interests.
Ramaphosa Stresses Engagement Over Retaliation
Responding directly to Malema’s criticism, Ramaphosa defended his government’s diplomatic strategy. He insisted that South Africa would not be drawn into a public showdown with the United States, nor would it “go on bended knee.”
“Without being supplicant, without going on bended knee—which we have never done, and which we will never do—we will stand as a sovereign country and get the best deal for South Africa,” Ramaphosa said.
Malema had earlier accused the administration of appeasement, calling the approach one of “begging” and lacking in assertiveness. He described the tariffs imposed by the U.S. as “senseless” and suggested that South Africa should take a firmer stance, even if it risked diplomatic fallout.
But Ramaphosa warned that adopting a retaliatory position could have unintended and possibly damaging consequences.
“If one wants to play to the gallery, one could embark on the type of option that Honourable Malema is talking about, without knowing what outcome that option will have,” he cautioned.
Ramaphosa revealed that ministers and trade officials were actively seeking new export markets beyond the United States, in an effort to protect South Africa’s economy from over-reliance on traditional Western markets.
The president pointed out that a government team was currently in the United States, laying the groundwork for the next round of high-level trade negotiations.
“Our team is working feverishly on the ground in the U.S. to prepare for imminent negotiations. Our aim is to achieve a balanced outcome that protects South African jobs and economic interests,” said Ramaphosa.
In addition to focusing on U.S. talks, the president emphasized that South Africa was strategically looking to diversify its global trade partners, particularly in Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East.
This push to expand the country’s export potential is a key component of the government’s broader trade strategy, which seeks to reduce economic vulnerability caused by geopolitical shifts and protectionist policies from traditional trade partners.
Throughout the parliamentary session, Ramaphosa was adamant that South Africa would never compromise its sovereignty or dignity on the international stage. He underscored that the nation’s foreign policy is built on principles of mutual respect and multilateral engagement.
“We are not a client state. We are an independent, sovereign country. Our approach to international trade is guided by what’s in the best interest of our people—not by pressure or patronage,” said Ramaphosa.
His comments come at a time when international observers are closely watching South Africa’s positioning in global trade negotiations, particularly as the country navigates complex relationships with both Western and Eastern powers.
The trade tariffs in question—originally implemented by former U.S. President Donald Trump—have had a significant impact on South Africa’s steel, aluminum, and agricultural exports. Industry leaders have warned that continued barriers to U.S. markets could threaten thousands of jobs.
However, Ramaphosa’s administration is betting on its ability to diversify trade and attract new strategic partnerships to cushion the blow. Recent trade talks with countries in the BRICS bloc and bilateral discussions with Asian economies have hinted at progress on this front.
While critics like Julius Malema accuse the government of timidity, Ramaphosa remains committed to a strategy rooted in diplomacy, pragmatism, and long-term economic planning. His firm but measured tone in Parliament signals a leader confident in his government’s approach—even amid political pressure at home.
In the eyes of Ramaphosa, true leadership lies not in retaliatory bravado but in strategic patience.
“We will engage, we will negotiate, and we will win respect—not by shouting, but by standing firm and acting wisely,” the president concluded.
Source- EWN
