South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Washington late Monday, launching a critical diplomatic mission aimed at strengthening economic and trade relations with the United States. The visit, which includes a scheduled meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, is focused on restoring ties that have deteriorated since Trump assumed office.
Accompanied by four cabinet ministers and a special envoy to the U.S., Ramaphosa’s delegation is tasked with reshaping the bilateral agenda. According to a statement from the presidency in Pretoria, the visit aims to “reset and revitalise” relations, with a particular emphasis on economic and commercial cooperation.
Relations between the two countries have faced increasing strain in recent years, prompting Pretoria to push for renewed engagement. The South African government sees this trip as pivotal in preserving key trade frameworks and defending local industries.
A core issue on the agenda is safeguarding access to the U.S. market under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allows duty-free entry for various African exports. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, who is part of the delegation, warned that any disruption to AGOA could have a devastating impact on South Africa’s economy, particularly its agricultural sector.
“Trade agreements like AGOA are essential for job protection and economic growth,” Steenhuisen said. “Losing these benefits would severely harm farmers, workers, and the broader economy.”
The U.S. currently ranks as South Africa’s second-largest trading partner after China. Concerns have mounted since Trump introduced wide-ranging tariffs earlier this year, including a proposed 31 percent levy on South African imports. Though implementation was delayed for 90 days, the potential consequences for South African industries remain significant.
Ramaphosa’s team includes ministers responsible for international relations, trade, and agriculture, reflecting the centrality of economic issues to the mission. Unemployment remains a pressing challenge in South Africa, with rates hovering around 32 percent. Creating jobs and fostering economic growth are therefore key priorities for the administration.
In addition to trade, Ramaphosa intends to counter narratives promoted by some members of the Trump administration, particularly false claims of widespread violence against white South Africans. Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya stated that Ramaphosa would use the visit to clarify that such allegations are unfounded.
Last week, the U.S. administration hosted a group of Afrikaners, citing concerns about minority safety—an event that stirred diplomatic unease in Pretoria.
Steenhuisen, a prominent figure in the Democratic Alliance and a coalition partner in the current government of national unity, reiterated the importance of open dialogue and mutual respect in advancing national interests.
During his visit, Ramaphosa is also expected to urge Trump to attend the upcoming G20 summit, which South Africa will host in Johannesburg this November. The U.S. president has signaled reluctance to participate, raising further concerns about international cooperation.
With trade and diplomacy on the line, Ramaphosa’s Washington visit marks a critical moment in South Africa’s foreign relations.