MBABANE – While the United States tightens trade policies with African nations through steep tariff increases, China is preparing to eliminate tariffs on imports from every African country — except Eswatini.
CNN journalist Larry Madowo reported during a live broadcast that African nations are being forced to reconsider their trade alliances as Washington imposes up to 30% tariffs, especially on South Africa, the continent’s most industrialised economy.
South African officials are reportedly struggling to get clarity from US counterparts on the way forward, with the foreign ministry now urging a pivot toward “more predictable” partners such as the European Union and China.
“There’s a need to de-risk, diversify and look inward for sustainability while exploring stronger relations with other markets,” a South African government official said.
The shift comes amid growing frustration that the US, under the Trump administration, has moved from an aid-focused approach to trade-driven engagements without finalising any substantial trade agreements on the continent.
Eswatini finds itself singled out in China’s latest zero-tariff plan because it remains the only African country that maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan — a move that continues to sour relations between Mbabane and Beijing. As a result, Eswatini will not benefit from China’s proposed duty-free access.
China is already Africa’s largest trading partner, with African countries exporting four times more goods to Beijing than to Washington.
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