South Africa, joined by several other African nations, has formally urged the United States to extend the looming 90-day deadline for finalizing a key bilateral trade agreement. Officials say more time is needed to align the deal with evolving negotiation frameworks.
The South African Trade Ministry revealed the appeal on Tuesday, citing a recent high-level meeting between Deputy Trade Minister Zuko Godlimpi and Assistant US Trade Representative for Africa Connie Hamilton.
Their discussion took place on the sidelines of the US-Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Angola, where Godlimpi reiterated South Africa’s call for greater flexibility in the talks.
The push follows Pretoria’s submission of a comprehensive proposed framework deal on May 20, aimed at boosting trade and investment ties with the US.
A day later, President Cyril Ramaphosa held direct talks with US President Donald Trump in Washington, highlighting the growing importance of the economic partnership.
The proposed agreement seeks to dismantle non-tariff barriers, reduce trade deficits, and expand market access for South African goods — all to promote stronger bilateral investment flows.
Trade Minister Parks Tau advised local industries to “exercise strategic patience and not take decisions in haste,” signalling the government’s cautious approach to protecting national interests.
Tau reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to finding an amicable solution through continued dialogue with Washington, aiming to secure the country’s position in the competitive US market.
