South Africa has proposed importing up to 100 million cubic metres of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually from the United States over the next decade, as part of efforts to secure a broader trade deal, according to a government statement.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the 10-year agreement would generate up to $1.2 billion in annual trade, also involving duty-free access for South African vehicles, auto parts, steel, and aluminium exports.
The proposals were presented during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent White House visit, where he discussed trade and cooperation with President Donald Trump. The document also outlined South Africa’s interest in US assistance to develop its own gas reserves, particularly in the Karoo region.
South Africa relies heavily on gas imports from Mozambique, whose supplies are declining, and sees LNG as a key to diversifying its energy mix.
A government news site that posted the document was offline Monday due to technical issues. A presidential spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
