“SA IS A THREAT TO U.S. SECURITY”: Trump Notifies Ramaphosa of Reasons for South Africa’s Termination from AGOA
WASHINGTON – SABC NEWS has obtained the letter in which United States President Donald Trump notifies President Cyril Ramaphosa of his intention to terminate South Africa’s AGOA beneficiary status effective January 1, 2027, after providing 60 days notice from October 28, 2026.
Trump says South Africa has not established, or is not making continual progress toward establishing, a system to combat corruption and bribery and eliminate barriers to US trade and investment as required by section 104 of AGOA.
He adds that certain actions by South Africa on international security and its relations with governments of concern to the US risk undermining US national security and foreign policy, citing tariff and non-tariff barriers, agricultural market access, regulatory requirements, investment protections and intellectual property.
In a response dated November 2, 2026, the South African Government says it recognizes concern for workers and exporters and will support affected sectors on a company to company basis, while retaining measures introduced for Reciprocal Tariffs.
Government says it tabled concessions beyond the 2015 agreement and that it is unfortunate the US is now raising new issues not part of negotiations since 2025.Government says AGOA remains important but is not the totality of the relationship.
In 2025, 89% of exports to the US entered under WTO MFN terms and 10% under AGOA, down from 28% in 2024, with AGOA exports falling to $1.7 billion from $4 billion in 2024, about 1% of global exports. Bilateral trade was $28.8 billion in 2025, with over 600 US firms supporting 134,600 jobs in South Africa.
Minister Parks Tau said: “This decision does not define the broader relationship between South Africa and the United States, however a solution depends on the willingness of both Parties to find solutions. At the same time, government will support affected sectors, protect South Africa’s national interests and continue pursuing trade, investment and shared economic opportunities with the United States.”
