South African sugar cane farmers to be hard hit by US tariffs, SAFDA says

August 10, 2025 |

In South Africa, SABC reported that the South African farmers development agency (SAFDA) has stated that the United States-imposed 30% tariff increase on the country’s imports will severely impact many farmers, particularly those in the sugar cane industry in KwaZulu-Natal.

During the province’s Post-Budget Speech Consultative Engagement, SAFDA Chairperson Siyabonga Madlala called on the government to assist businesses in securing alternative international markets.

“The agricultural sector, especially in KZN, is under pressure. We have a master plan aimed at rescuing the industry, but now that Trump has introduced these tariffs, I believe this undermines African Growth and Opportunity Act. We are losing a lucrative market we have enjoyed for years. Twenty-four thousand tons are now at risk, they will no longer be exported to America. That said, I must emphasize that we are resilient and have survived adversity before.”

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Category: Food & Agriculture

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