Ramaphosa calls for bilateral US trade agreement after voting
Speaking after voting in Johannesburg, the President favoured negotiated trade rules with Washington following the AGOA setback.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa should focus on a bilateral trade agreement with the United States, speaking after voting in Johannesburg's municipal elections on Wednesday.
IOL reported his remarks after he voted at Hyde Park High School. He described the AGOA setback as negative for South Africa, while contrasting a unilateral US preference programme with trade rules negotiated by both countries.
Reuters also reported his call to concentrate on a bilateral agreement and South Africa's search for other export markets.
A preferred approach, not a completed deal
The remarks describe the President's preferred approach. Neither account establishes that a new agreement has been concluded or provides agreed tariff terms or a timetable for negotiations.
In its 3 November response, government acknowledged Washington's announced intention to withdraw South Africa's AGOA benefits from 1 January 2027, with a 60-day notice period.
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau said government would support affected sectors while continuing to pursue trade and investment opportunities with the United States.