RT reports that South Africa’s Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau will be traveling to Mumbai and Delhi from August 25-29 to meet with Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal. Their objective, RT reported, is “to strengthen trade relations, deepen economic ties, and explore new markets.” Tau will also address the 20th India-Africa Conclave in New Delhi.
Trump has hit India with 50% tariffs and South Africa with 30% tariffs—both are founding members of the BRICS. “Tau and the Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen recently indicated that they are exploring alternative trade partners to mitigate these impacts,” RT reported. “India is currently South Africa’s fourth-largest trading partner and fourth-largest consumer market. With India expected to become the second-largest consumer market by 2030, the potential for trade growth between the two countries is significant.”
Anil Sooklal, the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to India, told RT that “India can ease the U.S. tariff saga” and that Indian businesses are keen on investing in South Africa, seeing it as an entry point to Sub-Saharan Africa. Areas of cooperation reportedly include mining and minerals, and manufacturing, particularly in the auto and pharmaceuticals sectors.
