The South African Farmers Development Agency (SAFDA) has raised alarms about the impact of a newly imposed 30 per cent tariff on South African imports by the United States. This decision is poised to devastate many farmers within the sugar cane industry in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a sector that has greatly relied on the American market.
At a recent Post Budget Speech Consultative Engagement held in the province, SAFDA Chairperson Dr Siyabonga Madlala made an impassioned plea for government support in securing alternative international markets for local businesses. “The agricultural sector, especially in KZN, has a master plan aimed at rescuing the industry,” he stated. “However, with the introduction of these tariffs by Trump, we see an undermining of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), and our access to a lucrative market that we have enjoyed for years is dwindling.”
Dr Madlala emphasised the potential fallout from these tariffs, stating, “Twenty-four thousand tons are now at risk of not being exported to America. We are surviving adverse conditions as best as we can, but further complications are not sustainable.”
In response to these pressing concerns, KZN MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa acknowledged that the issue extends beyond provincial lines. “There are two major crucial issues affecting communities in the province: Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) and tariffs,” she remarked. “While this matter is primarily being handled at a national level, we are engaging all relevant stakeholders within the province, especially farmers.”
KaMadlopha-Mthethwa stressed the importance of clear communication, aiming to reassure farmers and communities that the provincial government is actively addressing these challenges. “It is vital for our farmers to know that we are here for them, and while these matters impact KZN significantly, it is ultimately a national concern. The President alongside the Minister of Finance is dealing with the situation, ensuring that our farmers do not feel isolated during this turbulent time,” she added.
The threats posed by the tariff hikes have set off alarm bells within the agricultural sector, particularly in KZN. With both government authorities and farming representatives stressing the urgency of finding solutions.