Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) John Steenhuisen says President Donald Trump’s 30% tariff will have devastating consequences.
He says the African National Congress (ANC) must acknowledge the urgent need for economic reforms to cushion the blow of potential job losses resulting from the tariffs. According to Steenhuisen, billions of rands in export revenue could be lost, crippling key sectors of the economy.
The DA leader also commented on the ANC’s foreign policy. He said the party aligns itself with countries and policies perceived by the United States as being contrary to its interests.
HERE’S WHAT STEENHUISEN SAYS NEEDS TO BE CHANGED
The Minister of Agriculture said South Africa must remove barriers that hinder private sector participation in the generation and transmission of electricity. He also called for increased efficiency at ports, greater private sector involvement in freight rail, and amendments to the Expropriation Act.
He argued that the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) Act must be reviewed to prioritise poverty alleviation over race-based criteria. In addition, he called for urgent interventions in failing municipalities to improve service delivery.
The DA leader further urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to take decisive action against corruption across all levels of government.
STRENGTHENING TRADE RELATIONS IS A PRIORITY
The Minister of Agriculture said he remains committed to expanding market access for South African products.
He warned that the move by the US could signal the end of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The act currently grants South Africa duty-free access to the US market for more than 6,000 products. These include goods from the automotive, agricultural, and textile industries.
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