Trump Slaps Tariffs on South Africa Amid Xenophobia Backlash

The United States imposed fresh tariff sanctions on South Africa, targeting it among 60 countries, Zimeye reported, escalating economic pressure on Pretoria. The move, ordered by President Donald Trump, comes amid international criticism over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa. The tariffs will hit key export sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing, deepening economic woes in a country already struggling with high unemployment. The xenophobia backlash has strained diplomatic relations and trade ties, with the US signaling a tougher stance. The horizon: the sanctions could fuel further domestic unrest as economic pain intensifies, isolating South Africa from a key Western ally. The government faces a dual crisis of managing internal violence and external economic punishment.