Democratic Alliance (DA) leader and Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, has expressed confidence that the South African government will intensify negotiations with the United States to avert a looming 30% tariff hike on South African exports, set to take effect this Wednesday.
Speaking during a campaign trail in Douglas, a small farming town in the Northern Cape, Steenhuisen highlighted the potential damage the tariffs could inflict on the agricultural sector. The town, still recovering from devastating floods in 2024 and grappling with political instability in its local council, faces additional economic strain from the impending trade restrictions.
Concerns Over US Tariffs
Steenhuisen voiced deep concern over the tariffs, which threaten to disrupt South Africa’s agricultural exports to the US.
“I’m very, very concerned,” he said. “I’m hoping that we can use the next seven days to try and avert these tariffs until negotiations are complete. We’ve put good proposals on the table, and I believe there’s potential for a fair deal. Applying a 30% hike now would be premature.”
The minister pledged to collaborate with Trade Minister Parks Tau and South Africa’s agricultural attaché in Washington to advocate for a stronger trade relationship between the two nations.
Progress on Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Steenhuisen also highlighted his department’s efforts in controlling foot-and-mouth disease, a major barrier to international market access.
“If we get it under control, it will open new opportunities for our livestock sector, creating jobs and boosting economic growth,” he said.
By-Election Campaign
Wearing dual hats as both party leader and minister, Steenhuisen used his visit to rally support ahead of a crucial by-election next month in the Sianguma municipality, currently governed by the ANC.
Local residents expressed frustration with ongoing challenges, including agricultural setbacks and infrastructure issues.
“We have challenges—foot-and-mouth disease, floods, and now the US export problem,” one farmer said. “We want the DA to help fix this for job creation and our livelihoods.”
Another resident voiced support: “I vote for the DA, and that’s all I want.”
The by-election, triggered by the death of an independent councillor, will see the DA competing against the ANC, EFF, and Patriotic Alliance.
As tensions rise over both economic and political stability, Steenhuisen’s visit underscores the DA’s push to gain ground in the Northern Cape while addressing national trade concerns.
