In a statement made by the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, it was reported that a comprehensive alternative partnership strategy was put into effect against the trade tensions with the US and Türkiye was positioned among the “target markets with strategic priority” in this framework.
The statement emphasized that although South Africa has only a 0.25% share in US imports, the 30% tariff imposed on South Africa is “incomprehensible” and that this step will have negative effects on the relations between the two countries. It was stated that the tariff in question limits South Africa's capacity to utilize its mineral wealth, exhibits a trade approach similar to colonial-era impositions and that this situation is unacceptable.
Turning to alternative markets has become mandatory
It was noted that due to the direct impact of the new tariff regime on the South African economy, the government has accelerated its strategy of turning to alternative markets. In the statement, it was pointed out that this development offers an opportunity to establish new and long-term trade partnerships in markets that have been underutilized so far, and Türkiye, along with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries, is among the target countries with strategic priority.
It was also stated that significant progress has been made in opening up to major markets such as the European Union, China, Thailand, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Africa's largest economy: South Africa
According to International Monetary Fund (IMF) data, South Africa is the largest economy on the African continent as of 2025 with a gross domestic product (GDP) of more than USD 410 billion. The country, which stands out with its rich natural resources, developed financial system and strong industrial infrastructure, is shown as the continent's largest trade center.
Eight major South Africa-based companies are among the ten largest companies in Africa and all of these companies are traded on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). The total market capitalization of the JSE reached USD 1.3 trillion, which is higher than the combined volume of all African stock exchanges.
South Africa, which also holds the G20 presidency, is an important actor in global trade diplomacy as one of the BRICS countries.
Türkiye-South Africa economic relations are strengthening
Economic relations between Türkiye and South Africa have been steadily increasing in recent years. According to official data, the trade volume between the two countries reached approximately USD 2 billion as of 2024. Of this volume, USD 700 million was realized as exports from Türkiye to South Africa and USD 1.3 billion as imports from South Africa.
As Türkiye's largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Africa also plays a key role in Ankara's African expansion strategy. Türkiye's direct investments in this country reach a total of 100 million dollars in various sectors, especially in mining and textiles.
South Africa's trade tensions with the United States bring with it the potential to further economic cooperation between the two countries. Türkiye is expected to deepen its relations with South Africa in line with its goal of increasing its influence in the African continent.
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