The United States is intensifying its trade pressure on South Africa. The Trump administration has launched a fresh Section 301 investigation that could pave the way for new US tariffs South Africa.

White House officials say the probe forms part of a broader strategy that has already delivered trade wins. The move comes one year after the controversial “Liberation Day” tariffs first targeted South African exports.

Trump Administration Pushes New Investigation

On 12 March 2026 the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) initiated a Section 301 investigation into South Africa and 59 other countries. The probe examines whether these nations fail to prohibit imports of goods produced with forced labour.

USTR Jamieson Greer stated that countries unable to resolve flagged issues could face a tariff or fee. Hearings are scheduled for 28 April 2026, with outcomes expected within months.

Tariffs Remain Central to US Strategy

The investigation follows the partial collapse of the original “Liberation Day” tariffs. Announced on 2 April 2025, those measures hit South Africa with a 30% reciprocal tariff on top of a 10% universal rate. The tariffs took effect on 7 August 2025.

In February 2026 the US Supreme Court ruled the broader regime illegal. Washington responded by raising the universal tariff to 15% and shifting focus to new tools such as Section 301 and Section 232 investigations.

White House Claims Success

White House Deputy Press Secretary Kush Desai described the tariff approach as highly successful. He said it narrowed key trade deficits and helped secure more than 20 trade deals.

“Tariffs are here to stay,” Desai stated. “They’ve already delivered too many wins – from securing trade deals to lowering costs in key industries – to go back to the old status quo.”

Background and Ongoing Negotiations

South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has engaged in talks with the US since the 2025 tariffs were announced. However, no final deal has been reached.

The US has raised political and policy issues during negotiations, while Pretoria has preferred to keep discussions strictly trade-focused. US Ambassador to South Africa Leo Brent Bozell recently voiced Washington’s frustration with this stance.