Sanctions: US issues fresh deadline to South Africa

The United States has given South Africa and other countries involved in its Section 301 investigation until July 16, 2026, to submit additional information following recent hearings.

Last week, South Africa appeared before the US Trade Representative (USTR) and asked to be excluded from a proposed 12.5% tariff on goods imported from countries accused of failing to stop the use of forced labour.

A South African delegation led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) told US officials that the country already has laws banning forced labour and has signed key international labour agreements.

According to the DTIC, South Africa has legal measures that allow authorities to prevent the importation of goods made through forced labour.

The department said existing legislation can be used to investigate, control and prohibit such imports.

The government also pointed out that the International Trade Administration Act gives authorities the power to restrict certain imports when necessary.

In addition, the Customs and Excise Act allows the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to stop, seize and detain prohibited goods at the country’s borders.

South Africa noted that goods produced through prison labour are already banned under Section 113 of the Customs and Excise Act.

Based on these measures, the country asked the United States to exempt it from the proposed tariff.

As an alternative, South Africa requested that key exports such as platinum group metals, precious metals, vehicles, catamarans, citrus fruits, seafood, wine and nuts be excluded from any tariff action. Officials argued that there is no evidence these products are made using forced labour.

The USTR has asked governments, businesses and other stakeholders to submit any additional comments or evidence by July 16.

Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau said the United States remains one of South Africa’s most important trading partners and a major market for its exports.

He added that South Africa will continue discussions with the US on issues including the Section 301 investigation, the renewal of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and tariffs affecting exports of steel, aluminium, vehicles and auto parts.

The South African delegation was supported by the Department of Employment and Labour, the International Trade Administration Commission and the South African Embassy in Washington, DC.