The agreement stipulates that China will allow the duty-free import of certain South African products, as Pretoria seeks to diversify its markets, the Rainbow Nation's Ministry of Trade said on Thursday.
China is South Africa's largest trading partner, followed by the United States, which last August imposed tariffs of 30% on certain South African products.
Trade Minister Parks Tau is expected in China to sign an agreement that "will allow South African exports duty-free access to the Chinese market and attract investment to South Africa," according to the ministry.
“This trip comes at a time when South Africa is pursuing a goal of diversifying its markets and growing its exports,” he added, without specifying which sectors would benefit from this tariff exemption agreement. Mr. Tau will also meet with Chinese companies interested in investing in South Africa, he indicated.
China became Pretoria's top trading partner in 2023 after overtaking the European Union, with South Africa mainly exporting minerals and agricultural products.
Pretoria has stated that it is trying to negotiate a better trade deal with the United States, fearing that the 30% tariffs imposed on a range of products could cost thousands of jobs. Tensions between the South African government and the administration of President Donald Trump have escalated over the past year on a range of issues, disrupting transatlantic relations.
