With Donald Trump’s re-election as US president, Pretoria faces a complex diplomatic landscape that demands recalibration. Given Trump’s “America First” doctrine, renewed focus on trade protectionism and inclination for personality-driven diplomacy, SA must anticipate a distinct shift in its interactions with the US.

The assumption that historical alliances or shared values will soften the approach is a miscalculation SA cannot afford to make. With possible risks including economic sanctions and pressure on renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), the stakes are higher than ever, calling for a combination of pragmatic adaptation and diplomatic finesse...

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