Natalie Nyathi
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has strongly responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on countries aligned with the BRICS economic bloc, asserting the right of nations to cooperate peacefully and pursue shared interests. Speaking at a press briefing in Rio de Janeiro, where he attended the 17th BRICS Summit, Ramaphosa firmly rejected the notion of “might makes right” in international relations.
Ramaphosa’s comments followed Trump’s announcement of a potential 10% tariff on imports from countries that, in Trump’s view, “orient themselves along anti-American policies,” a clear reference to the BRICS nations. The BRICS economic bloc comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and has recently expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and others.
The South African President defended BRICS, emphasizing that the bloc is not a rival to existing global institutions such as the UN or the G20. Instead, he characterized BRICS as one of several emerging centers of global power working to promote development, improve global governance, and give a meaningful voice to the Global South. He described the bloc’s latest joint declaration as “a beautiful declaration” focused on global well-being.
Ramaphosa also highlighted key issues addressed at the BRICS Summit, including the collective condemnation of Israel’s actions against Iran and calls for a ceasefire in Gaza. He further emphasized the growing momentum for reform within the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, to reflect contemporary global realities.
Addressing the trade tensions with the U.S., Ramaphosa expressed hope that South Africa and the U.S. could reach an understanding. He acknowledged that South Africa has presented a “clear proposal and offer” to the U.S. which is currently under review. “Everything is negotiable,” Ramaphosa stated, adding that even deadlines could be adjusted.
Despite the current challenges, South Africa remains committed to engaging with the U.S. to achieve a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship. South Africa submitted a Framework Deal to the U.S. on May 20, 2025, addressing concerns related to the trade deficit, non-tariff barriers, and commercial relations. The framework also seeks exemptions for key South African exports, such as autos and auto parts, from Section 232 duties.
Tensions between the U.S. and South Africa have risen recently, with Trump issuing an executive order in February cutting financial assistance to South Africa. Concerns over land reform policies, South Africa’s relationship with Iran, and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice were cited as reasons for the order.
Despite these issues, Ramaphosa described his May meeting with Trump at the White House as productive, helping to “reset” the bilateral relationship around trade. As negotiations continue, South Africa is advocating for cooperation and a fair approach to trade, emphasizing its commitment to multilateralism and global well-being.