President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa is prioritising the expansion of intra-African trade as global economic tensions, particularly with the United States under President Donald Trump, continue to mount.
In his weekly letter to the nation, Ramaphosa highlighted the need for Pretoria to deepen trade relations across the continent, leveraging regional partnerships that align with national interests. He pointed to the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), the SADC Free Trade Area, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as key vehicles for boosting South Africa's economic resilience.
“As uncertainty grows around future trade relations with major global powers, we are strengthening ties with regions where we have existing preferential trade agreements,” Ramaphosa said.
The President noted progress under AfCFTA, citing a recent shipment of South African-made consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, electrical products, and fresh produce from the Durban port to markets across the continent.
Ramaphosa also reaffirmed South Africa's support for reforms within the World Trade Organisation (WTO), saying the country would continue to push for a more equitable global trade environment that better serves developing economies.
“Our focus remains on advancing a fair and balanced international trading system while unlocking the full potential of African markets,” he added.