U.S. Congressmen Urge Trump to Revoke South Africa’s AGOA Membership

Four U.S. congressmen have called on President Trump to revoke South Africa’s AGOA membership and contemplate severing diplomatic ties due to accusations of undermining American interests, supporting Israel’s adversaries, and maintaining close ties with China. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated his country won’t be intimidated as they address U.S. concerns regarding alleged human rights abuses and land reform policies.

Four U.S. congressmen have urged President Trump to revoke South Africa’s membership under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and even consider severing diplomatic relations. They accuse South Africa of undermining American interests, alleging a vendetta against Israel, human rights violations, and aligning too closely with the Chinese Communist Party. In a letter dated February 11, 2025, Republican representatives Andrew Ogles, Tom Tiffany, Joe Wilson, and Don Bacon made these appeals.

The letter emphasizes the need to revoke South Africa’s preferential trade benefits. It suggests that the U.S. should suspend diplomatic ties unless South Africa is willing to engage positively with American interests. The congressmen argue that the current situation warrants re-evaluating South Africa’s economic ties with the United States.

President Trump, along with Tesla CEO Elon Musk, has criticized the South African government for its treatment of Afrikaners and white farmers amid land reform. Despite claims of violations, it is noted that no farms have been forcibly taken since the onset of democracy in South Africa in 1994. Moreover, the disproportionate land ownership by this demographic, despite their small population percentage, raises further questions about the government’s policies.

In response, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa indicated the government will send representatives to address U.S. concerns but firmly stated that they would not be coerced. Tensions also arise from South Africa’s allegations against Israel of genocide, with the country having taken the matter to the International Court of Justice. Israel countered these allegations, asserting their right to defend themselves amid attacks on October 7, 2023.

The letter contends that South Africa no longer deserves duty-free access to U.S. markets. It highlights actions by South Africa to pressure the relocation of Taiwan’s liaison office as evidence of its disqualifying behavior. The congressmen argue that South Africa’s actions directly undermine U.S. foreign policy and security interests, thereby failing to meet AGOA eligibility criteria. Additionally, its membership in the BRICS coalition, alongside China, Russia, India, and Brazil, raises concerns about the alliance’s goal of diminishing the U.S. dollar’s influence in international trade.

In summary, a group of U.S. congressmen is seeking President Trump’s intervention to withdraw South Africa’s preferential trade status under AGOA due to perceived threats to American interests. The situation is compounded by South Africa’s diplomatic stance regarding Israel and increasing ties with China, prompting calls for reevaluation of U.S.-South Africa relations.

Original Source: www.cnbcafrica.com