state of the stainless steel nation
South Africa faces a double threat: Steel job losses and rising trade barriers South Africa’s steel sector is under pressure. The unresolved uncertainty around the future of ArcelorMittal South Africa’s long- products division continues to cast a shadow over the industry, with the potential loss of up to 100 000 jobs. In tandem, looming US tariffs on South African exports now pose a fresh threat not just to steel, but to critical sectors such as automotive and agriculture. In the latest State of the Stainless Steel Nation Q&A, Sassda Executive Director Michel Basson unpacks the economic risks, the wider implications of global trade politics, and the limited options South Africa has on the table…
Why are US tariffs particularly significant for South Africa at this time?
The proposed 25% tariff on South African exports to the US could hit the economy at a sensitive time. The automotive industry, one of South Africa’s key exporters, is particularly exposed, as it relies heavily on the AGOA trade agreement to access the US market. If those benefits are eroded, a major chunk of foreign revenue could vanish. Agriculture is also at risk, especially the citrus sector, where finding alternative markets is complicated by the logistics of exporting
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Issue 2 – 2025
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