GRACELIN BASKARAN: SA can give US leg up in minerals diplomacy across Africa
While workforce exchanges offer a form of economic co-operation, SA firms can play a role in developing American mines
On April 2 2025, declared “Liberation Day” by US President Donald Trump, the administration unveiled the most extensive tariff increase since the 1930 Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, a law associated with sparking a global trade war and worsening the Great Depression. A flat 10% tariff on all imported goods was scheduled to begin on April 5, with additional tariffs targeting specific countries rolling out on April 9.
Minerals, though still included under the broad 10% universal tariff, are mostly excluded from the reciprocal tariffs. The administration specifically noted that “energy and certain critical minerals not produced domestically” will be exempt. This suggests a clear acknowledgment by the Trump administration that securing reliable access to these vital resources requires international co-operation, rather than relying solely on protectionist measures. ..
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