Trade union Solidarity intends to revisit the United States to confront the fall-out over the 30% US tariff imposed on South African goods that takes effect from August 7.
On Wednesday the union announced its plan for the visit along with a comprehensive five-point strategy to cushion the economic blow and mend strained bilateral relations.
US President Donald Trump’s tariff decision follows heightened tensions, sparked by several factors including South Africa’s Expropriation Act and its political stance on the war in Gaza.
Solidarity and its affiliates, including AfriForum, have faced criticism for allegedly intensifying these tensions through lobbying efforts in the US. However, the union has blamed the South African government, particularly the ANC, for mishandling relations with the US.
Solidarity’s five-point plan includes:
- Diplomatic liaisons: Engaging both South African and US governments to negotiate solutions.
- Employment support: Providing assistance and alternative job opportunities for workers affected by the tariffs.
- Collaborative network: Partnering with other organisations to form a broad coalition to support affected industries and improve US-South Africa relations.
- Impact monitoring: Developing a barometer to track the tariffs’ effects on South African industries.
- Advocacy for policy reform: Urging the government to address issues like property rights, farm murders, hate speech, Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws, and neutral foreign policies to restore confidence with the US.
“Solidarity has been in talks with political parties, trade unions, and civil society groups to resolve the US-South Africa dispute and implement interim relief for industries and communities,” the union said.
The union said it planned to travel to the US soon to meet with interest groups and has already submitted proposals and requested discussions with both governments.
The union also outlined measures to protect its members’ jobs and provide support. Solidarity accused the ANC of neglecting diplomatic efforts to avert the tariffs, describing the government’s approach as “an act of violence against South Africans”, saying it would leverage its influence and networks to secure a better deal.
Source: Polity
