South Africa-US Rift: 5 Issues Affect Ties

South Africa-US relations have hit rock bottom again, following an announcement by Washington of new visa restrictions against some South African officials.

The restrictions were announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on September 15, stating that they will be against foreign nationals involved in any policies that Washington claims enable uncompensated land grabs, discrimination based on race, or violence against ethnic minorities in South Africa. Pretoria denied the allegation against the country’s policies and called for respect for its sovereignty.

Here are five issues fueling the latest rift.

1. Visa Limitations by the US on South Africa Based on Its Domestic Policies

The current controversy relates to South Africa’s domestic policies relating to land and transformation. According to Washington, some of the people responsible for the implementation of such policies may face visa limitations.

Previously, the US claimed that such policies negatively affect white South Africans and complained about discrimination. Pretoria rejected this statement and pointed out that its post-apartheid domestic legislation is aimed at solving racial discrimination problems existing in the country, according to the Constitution of South Africa.

2. 30% Duty Charged by the US on South African Exports

Now, trade relations between the two countries have become an issue.

The Trump administration imposed a 30% duty on exports from South Africa to the US. It happened after the unsuccessful negotiations regarding the agreement. In order to reach some agreement, South Africa offered to purchase US liquefied natural gas and make investments in American businesses.

The tariff affects a crucial export channel. South African products exported to the US include automobiles, iron and steel products, agricultural products, and manufacturing products.

Pretoria claims that increased tariffs may lead to difficulties in export industries and the employment rate.

3. The Dispute over Land Reform

The land issue in South Africa stems from the history of the country during the apartheid era when racial laws severely restricted Black ownership and possession of land.

Land reform and expropriation under particular circumstances have been introduced by the South African government. However, these policies have been condemned by Washington with special regard to the expropriation without compensation.

According to South Africa, the land reform issue is a part of the solution to the problem of historical injustice, and the description of the policy provided by the US misinterprets constitutional and legal precautions of the country.

4. South Africa’s ICJ Proceedings against Israel

Foreign policy is one more reason for the dispute.

South Africa has instituted proceedings against Israel for violations of the Genocide Convention during Israel’s war against the territory of Gaza. The US, a strong ally of Israel, has denied the accusations of genocide.

Consequently, Washington has referred to the stance of South Africa in relation to Israel and the proceedings against it as an example of an issue causing the deterioration of bilateral relations.

5. A Larger Breakdown in Diplomatic Relations

In addition to the arguments on trade, domestic change, and foreign policy, there have been growing tensions in their diplomatic relations.

Trump’s administration has already fired the South African ambassador in Washington and decreased US aid, and Pretoria, in its turn, has always justified its independent foreign policy and refuted any discrimination allegations.

Nevertheless, the countries maintain strong economic and diplomatic relations despite all existing problems. South Africa’s foreign ministry views the US as its strategic partner and large market, and their economic relations still depend on acts like AGOA.