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South Africa’s Central Bank Plays Down US Tariff Impact on Growth

By SG Editor·
Nigerian monarch discussing renewable energy initiatives in his kingdom.

A Nigerian monarch actively promoting renewable energy solutions to electrify his kingdom.

South Africa’s central bank has downplayed concerns over new US tariffs, predicting only a modest hit to growth and minimal inflation impact. Despite a steep 30% tariff—the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa—Governor Lesetja Kganyago reassured stakeholders that the economy remains resilient, with growth forecasts revised down by just 0.1 percentage points. While President Cyril Ramaphosa scrambles to revive trade talks and secure lower tariffs, Kganyago noted that key markets like Europe and China outweigh US trade, which accounts for only 7% of exports. Financial markets have shrugged off the tariffs, with analysts confident businesses will adapt by shifting to alternative markets. Though a setback, the central bank views this as far from catastrophic.

Reuters