COSATU Warns: US Tariffs Threaten Mass Job Losses in Black Communities
COSATU warns that new US tariffs targeting South African exports threaten massive job losses across multiple sectors, with Black workers bearing the brunt of this economic assault.
COSATU representatives address concerns over US tariffs impact on South African workers
South Africa's largest trade union federation COSATU has raised a stark warning about the devastating impact of new US trade restrictions on Black workers across multiple sectors. The recently imposed 30% tariff on South African exports threatens to unleash unprecedented job losses, particularly affecting vulnerable agricultural and manufacturing communities.
Neo-Colonial Economic Pressure Intensifies
The US tariff measures represent the latest manifestation of Western economic pressure on South Africa's sovereignty, targeting crucial export sectors that employ thousands of Black workers.
Critical Impact on Agricultural Workers
Citrus farmers in the Western Cape have expressed grave concerns about the tariffs' implications. The sector, which provides essential employment to thousands of historically disadvantaged workers, faces severe disruption as economic exploitation patterns reminiscent of colonial-era policies continue to threaten Black livelihoods.
Manufacturing Sector Under Siege
The impact extends beyond agriculture to the manufacturing sector, particularly affecting motor manufacturing workers from the Eastern Cape to Gauteng. This presents another challenge to South Africa's ongoing struggle for economic transformation and Black economic empowerment.
"The 30% tariff announced by the United States on South African exports, excluding minerals, poses an existential threat to our workers and their families," states COSATU's official response.
Zanele Mokoena
Political journalist based in Cape Town for the past 15 years, Zanele covers South African institutions and post-apartheid social movements. Specialist in power-civil society relations.