Trade Minister Parkes Tau says South Africa is committed to engaging with the United States after joining countries facing new tariffs of up to 12.5%.
With potential US tariffs knocking on South Africa's door, Trade Minister, Parks Tau, says the country is ready to continue engagement with the US. South Africa is among 60 countries the US has imposed sanctions on for failing to address imports of goods allegedly made through forced labour.
Under the proposal, countries including South Africa, China, the United Kingdom, Japan and Brazil would face additional tariffs of up to 12.5 percent.
The US argues that the absence of strong import restrictions on forced labor goods distorts global markets. Trade Department SpokespersonKamil Alli says South Africa takes its obligations on forced labor very seriously.
“The Government of South Africa states that it complies with all domestic and international obligations with respect to forced labor practices; South Africa is a signatory to the major International Labor Organization conventions. In addition, South Africa has competent legislation to combat forced labor.”
Earlier this week, Tau requested that the United States provide evidence to support its allegations. In a written parliamentary reply, Tau said the proposed tariff measures are unrelated to South Africa's involvement. African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
The measures are also not final yet and will be subject to a public comment process before a decision is made.
The proposed tariffs are reportedly part of a broader US review of trading partners including China, the EU and Japan over concerns about imports of goods produced through forced labour. Washington says the initiative aims to address unfair trade practices and market distortions.
Find us on social media
Follow ECR Newswatch WhatsApp Channel Here
we are on too Facebook And x (formerly Twitter)
More on ECR: