Podcasts about agoa

During the first 100 days of his second term in office, US President Donald Trump has issued a series of executive orders that have unsettled the commodities market and prompted investors to hold off from making new investments in African economies. In the last three months, Trump has presented the world with “a ding-dong of measures and counter-measures," as Nigerian finance analyst Gbolahan Olojede put it.With such measures including increased tariffs on US imports from African nations (as elsewhere), this new regime has effectively called into question the future validity of preferential trade agreements with African states – such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allows duty-free access, under strict conditions, to the US market for African goods."The reciprocal tariffs effectively nullify the preferences that sub-Saharan Africa countries enjoy under AGOA," South Africa's foreign and trade ministers said in a joint statement on 4 April.Jon Marks, editorial director of energy consultancy and news service African Energy, echoed this climate of uncertainty: “With the Trump presidency lurching from policy to policy, no one knows where they are. And it's very difficult to actually see order within this chaos."Africa braces for economic hit as Trump's tariffs end US trade perksHe told RFI he expects long periods of stasis, in which nothing actually happens, when people have been expecting immediate action.“That's going to be, I think, devastating for markets, devastating for investment. The outlook really is grim," he added.CommoditiesIn 2024, US exports to Africa were worth $32.1 billion. The US imported $39.5 billion worth of goods from Africa, the bulk of these being commodities such as oil and gas, as well as rare minerals including lithium, copper and cobalt.“The focus of the Trump administration is on critical minerals now, particularly in the [Democratic Republic of Congo], which is the Saudi Arabia of cobalt,” said Eric Olander, editor-in-chief of the China Global South Project news site.The US is aiming to build non-Chinese supply chains for its military technology.“The F-35s, supersonic fighter jets, need cobalt. When they look at critical minerals, they're not looking at that for renewable energy. They're looking at it specifically for weapons and for their defence infrastructure,” Olander explained.Collateral damageOn 2 April, President Trump unveiled sweeping tariffs on US imports worldwide, declaring that the US “has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered by nations near and far” and calling this date a “Liberation Day” which will make “America wealthy again”.Stock markets immediately plummeted as a result of his announcement.On 9 April, Trump announced a 90-day pause – until mid-July – on these tariffs. Instead, a flat 10 percent rate will be applied on exports to the US.The exception was China, whose goods face even higher tariffs – 145 percent on most Chinese goods. Beijing retaliated with 125 percent levies on US imports.According to Olander, most African nations have so far been “insulated from the harsh impact of these tariffs” and from the consequences of what is, in effect, a trade war between two economic giants – China and the US.“South Africa, which accounts for a considerable amount of Africa's trade with the United States, is much more exposed to the effects of these tariffs than the rest of the continent,” he said.Africa FirstBut what if Trump's "America First" agenda was to be copied, asks Kelvin Lewis, editor of the Awoko newspaper in Sierra Leone.“Just like Trump is saying America First, we should think Sierra Leone First,” he told RFI. “He is teaching everyone how to be patriotic. We have no reason to depend on other people, to go cap in hand begging, because we have enough natural resources to feed and house all 9 million of us Sierra Leoneans.”He added: “If Africa says we close shop and we use our own resources for our benefit like Trump is telling Americans, I think the rest of the world would stand up and take notice.”Meanwhile, Trump believes his imposition of these increased tariffs has succeeded in bringing countries to the negotiating table.“I'm telling you, these countries are calling us up, kissing my ass. They are dying to make a deal. Please, please sir, make a deal. I'll do anything. I'll do anything, sir,” Trump said on 8 April at a Republican Congress committee dinner in Washington.New marketsOlander believes that the trade war instigated by Trump has resulted in more risks than opportunities for Africa's vulnerable countries.“But, there is a lot more activity now diplomatically between African countries and other non-US countries,” he added.“Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed from Ethiopia was in Vietnam, as was Burundi's president. There's more engagement between Uganda and Indonesia, more trade activity and discussions between Brazil and Africa.”Foreign ministers from the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) met in Rio de Janeiro on 28 April to coordinate their response to Trump's trade policy.However, securing markets for non-US exports is a challenging task. It took Kenya 10 years “of steady diplomacy” to get China to fund the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway to the Ugandan border, according to Olander.Kenyan president visits China as country pivots away from the US“Whether it's in China, Indonesia, Brazil or elsewhere, it takes time. Exporting into developed G7 markets means facing an enormous number of hurdles, like agricultural restrictions,” he continued. “Then, in the global south, Angola is not going to sell bananas to Brazil, right?”“Trump's trade policies have actually been to depress the oil price,” said Marks. “The price has been under the psychologically low threshold of $70 a barrel.He explains it is because of the demand destruction Trump's policies have placed on global trading.Demand destruction means that people are not investing, “ Marks said. “It's really a period of wait-and-see.”“This will affect prices very profoundly. One of the ironies is that although a lower dollar means that African economies should be able to export their goods for more money, a declining dollar amidst market uncertainties means that investors are not going to be rushing to come into Africa.”

Motheo Khoaripe speaks to Nkosinathi Mahlangu, Momentum’s Youth Employment Portfolio Head about the uncertainty around AGOA and proposed US tariffs could threaten access to key export markets like citrus and avocados, undermine rural farming efforts, and widen inequality in the agri-sector. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.Thank you for listening to The Money Show podcast.Listen live - The Money Show with Stephen Grootes is broadcast weekdays between 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) on 702 and CapeTalk.There’s more from the show at www.themoneyshow.co.zaSubscribe to the Money Show daily and weekly newslettersThe Money Show is brought to you by Absa.Follow us on:702 on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702702 on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: www.instagram.com/talkradio702702 on X: www.x.com/Radio702702 on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@radio702CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Maytham speaks with Ferial Haffejee, Associate Editor at Daily Maverick, about her incisive analysis of South Africa’s fragile Government of National Unity (GNU). Drawing from her recent article, Haffejee argues that a late-night deal between the National Treasury and the DA, culminating in the withdrawal of a proposed VAT hike, was not just a fiscal decision, but a political lifeline that may have saved the GNU from unravelling Follow us on:CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trump se handelstariewe het die Agoa-voordele vir Afrika-lande soos Suid-Afrika en Lesotho feitlik beëindig, terwyl Namibië minder geraak is weens laer uitvoere na die VSA. Kosmos 94.1 Nuus het met dr. Kobus Laubscher, ‘n Suid-Afrikaanse landbou ekonoom oor die impak gesels.

Kia ora,Welcome to Thursday's Economy Watch where we follow the economic events and trends that affect Aotearoa/New Zealand.I'm David Chaston and this is the international edition from Interest.co.nz.And today we lead with news gold has taken off, hitting yet another new all-time record high as fear stalks markets today and risk is definitely 'off'. But the NZD is rising. As we publish, markets are moving quickly so this snapshot will date just as quickly.But first in the US, mortgage applications fell -8.0% last week from the same week a year ago, with the refinance component down a rather sharp -12% on the same basis. These retreats came as benchmark mortgage rates rose +20 bps from a week agoA rush to buy cars ahead of the April tariff taxes delivered a boost to March retail sales that was even more than expected. Without those car sales, March retail was barely improved, and that does not adjust for price inflation so in volume terms, core retail sales are declining now. That trend will have global implications.American industrial production rose +1.3% from a year ago and this does adjust for price changes, so a small improvement. But it did shrink in March compared to February.Sentiment by American house builders was little-changed in March from February, but it is -21% lower than a year ago, and -13% lower than two years ago. In fact, excluding the pandemic, you have to go back to the GFC to find it this poor in a March month. That is not good because it is the start of their Spring selling season. Survey results show that tariff taxes are not being paid by importing countries, rather by the builders at this stage. As profits dive, that will be passed on to buyers next.There was a US Treasury 20 year bond auction earlier today and demand was slightly lower so the median yield rose to 4.75%. That is a rise from the 4.59% at the prior equivalent event a month ago.Fed boss Powell was talking earlier today, saying that tariffs pose a real challenge to meet their dual inflation+jobs mandates. Inflation pressures are here now which argues for rate settings to rise, while economic growth is expected to leak away soon hurting jobs, arguing for a rate cut. He said they will "wait for greater clarity" to see where the dominant pressure comes from.These comments were not the magical thinking equity markets wanted to hear, and the realities of what faces the US economy has seen Wall Street pull back today. The Nasdaq is down -3.9%, the S&P500 down -2.8%. The Dow is down -1.8%. Gold is the safe-haven parking lot.In Canada, they are also waiting. Rather than continue with their rate cut track, the Bank of Canada has paused that track, keeping its policy rate at 2.75% as they too watch inflation rise and economic activity leak away. Interestingly, the TSX is only down -0.3%, hit far less than Wall Street.Across the Pacific, Japan's February machinery orders rebounded sharply, rising well above market expectations for a modest +0.8% increase to its highest level in a year. Manufacturing orders rose +3%, while non-manufacturing orders jumped +11.4%. This rise matches the separate machine tool order data for March which was also up sharply. And these first see prosperity ahead; The Reuters Tankan sentiment index rose sharply in April. But the same firms surveyed were gloomy for the months further out in 2025.China claimed its economy grew at a +5.4% rate in Q1-2025 (real), the same rate as for Q4-2024. They said retail sales were up +5.9% (nominal) in March from a year ago, better than the +4.0% in February and the best rise since December 2023 which benefited from a low base. They also said industrial production was up +7.7% (nominal) in March, far better than the +5.6% expected and far better than the +5.9% February gain. Electricity production was only up +1.8% (real) year on year in March, so either they are making spectacular energy efficiency gains, or something other than electricity powers their industry, or something doesn't add up. Anecdotal reports from many regions don't paint quite the picture these official stats paint.Meanwhile, Chinese new home prices in March edged lower from February, but there are range of changes in the 70 top Chinese cities. Still only Shanghai shows a year-on-year gain. Among the same cities, none show any gain for resales of existing houses and some declines are now as much as -11% (Jinhua, 7 mln population, and Tangshan, 7.7 mln).The UST 10yr yield is now at 4.27%, down another -6 bps from this time yesterday. The price of gold will start today sharply higher at a new record of US$3337/oz, and up +US$108 from yesterday or +3.3%.Oil prices have firmed marginally, up +50 USc from yesterday to be now just over US$62/bbl in the US and the international Brent price is now just over US$65.50/bbl.The Kiwi dollar is now at 59.3 USc, up +20 bps from yesterday at this time and still the highest since mid-December. The fall of the USD embeds. Against the Aussie we are unchanged at 92.9 AUc. Against the euro we down -40 bps from yesterday at just on 52.4 euro cents. That all means our TWI-5 starts today now just on 67.6 and unchanged from yesterday.The bitcoin price starts today at US$83,854 and holding again, down less than -0.9% from this time yesterday. Volatility over the past 24 hours has again been modest at +/- 1.3%.You can find links to the articles mentioned today in our show notes.You can get more news affecting the economy in New Zealand from interest.co.nz.Kia ora. I'm David Chaston. This podcast will take a break over the Easter holiday weekend and we will do this again Tuesday.

Independent analyst Carmen Mpelwane looks at whether it might be time for investors to start exploring markets outside the US, as global sell-offs continue in response to the Trump tariffs. Meryl Pick from Old Mutual Investment Group unpacks the talk around a potential exclusion from Agoa — and why it might not be as bad as many are making it out to be. Frank Leonette, CEO of GloRep, chats about what's being done to help get us off the grey list.

Meryl Pick from Old Mutual Investment Group unpacks the talk around a potential exclusion from Agoa — and why it might not be as bad as many are making it out to be.

John Steenhuisen – Minister of Agriculture SAfm Market Update - Podcasts and live stream

John Maytham speaks to political economist Professor Patrick Bond about the impact of the new 30 percent US tariff on South African exports. Announced by US President Donald Trump, the tariff threatens key industries like automotive, steel, and citrus. Bond weighs in on whether the move will really help US manufacturing and explains how the shift could push South Africa toward energy efficiency, electric vehicle production, and reduced dependence on US trade.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joining us to unpack the implications of Trumps 30% tariff and how it affects Cape Town’s boat industry, is Vanessa Davidson, Executive Manager at the South African Boat Builders Export Council (SABBEX).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump anunciou esta quarta-feira novas taxas aduaneiras, que vão ser aplicadas a um vasto conjunto de países. O Presidente norte-americano anunciou igualmente taxas alfandegárias para vários Estados africanos como é o caso de taxas de 31% para a África do Sul ou 32% para Angola, entre outros. Para o economista Carlos Lopes, “a grande surpresa é que estas taxas são uma espécie de guerra comercial para o conjunto do mundo”, “que acabam por pôr em causa o sistema actual de comércio”.  Donald Trump anunciou esta quarta-feira à noite novas taxas aduaneiras, que vão ser aplicadas a um vasto conjunto de países. A China está no topo da lista, cujos produtos terão uma taxa de 34%, um valor que se acrescenta à taxa de 20% já aplicada, o que coloca os produtos chineses na barreira dos 54%. A União Europeia será alvo de uma taxa de 20%, o Reino Unido terá uma taxa de 10% e o Japão de 24%.O continente africano não fica de fora deste “dia da libertação”, o Presidente norte-americano anunciou igualmente taxas alfandegárias para vários Estados africanos como é o caso de taxas de 31% para a África do Sul ou 32% para Angola, entre outros.Para o economista Carlos Lopes, “a grande surpresa é que estas taxas são uma espécie de guerra comercial para o conjunto do mundo”, “que acabam por pôr em causa o sistema actual do comércio”. O docente na Universidade do Cabo, África do Sul, acrescenta que os Estados Unidos vão sofrer “grandes repercussões” com estas medidas que “não tem nada a ver com a economia actual, globalizada e integrada”, reflectindo decisões “mais de fundo ideológico do que de fundo racional”.RFI: Quais são as consequências destas taxas para o continente africano?Carlos Lopes, economista: A grande surpresa é que estas taxas são uma espécie de guerra comercial para o conjunto do mundo. Se fosse em relação a determinado número de países ou uma região em específico, seria uma conjuntura um bocado diferente.O que as taxas acabam por pôr em causa é o sistema actual do comércio, porque os Estados Unidos tiveram uma influência muito grande na criação, primeiro no acordo que precede a Organização Mundial do Comércio, que é o Acordo Geral de Tarifas e Comércio (GATT) e, segundo, durante a vigência da OMC, foi o país que mais colaborou para uma globalização através do comércio. Portanto, a partir do momento em que aplica estas taxas a todos os países do mundo, perde um pouco não só a sua liderança, mas também mostra que vai ter uma certa hostilidade em relação ao sistema que ele próprio criou.Mas estamos aqui no início de uma nova ordem mundial do comércio?Sem dúvida, mas é preciso também aceitar que algumas linhas de contestação do comércio, tal como ele vinha sendo desenvolvido, já estavam em curso. Isto não é um apanágio apenas dos Estados Unidos. A Europa também introduziu medidas unilaterais, invocando razões climáticas. Outros países também utilizaram formas de proteccionismo durante a pandemia. Ou seja, nós temos vindo a assistir a uma espécie de erosão das regras do comércio, tal como elas foram estabelecidas nos últimos 20 anos.O que nós vemos agora é apenas uma aceleração do que era já uma tendência, uma tendência de contestação das regras do comércio. Fez-se em nome de um comércio que fosse mais seguro e mais amigo do clima, mas na realidade já eram medidas proteccionistas que agora perdem um pouco a sua capa e a sua manipulação em termos de argumentos políticos e passam a ser aquilo que todos vêem, que é uma espécie de hostilidade comercial baseada na reciprocidade. Aliás, um conceito que, no caso dos Estados Unidos, tem uma interpretação muito peculiar, porque não é uma reciprocidade em termos de tarifas - embora sejam as tarifas o que é invocado - é uma reciprocidade em termos de balança comercial. Ou seja, um país que tem mais exportações para os Estados Unidos do que importações será punido. Isto é uma coisa absurda. Leva que o país que tem mais tarifas, a taxa mais elevada, seja um país com o Lesoto, um pobre Lesoto que não custa mais do que uma pinga no comércio dos Estados Unidos.Porquê estes países? Há países com economias bastante modestas…Por um lado, é acabar com o acordo especial AGOA [African Growth and Opportunity Act], que era um acordo para dar preferências de importação aos países africanos sem taxação.Eu sempre disse que este acordo não ia ter muitas pernas para andar, porque os investidores normalmente querem previsibilidade, ou seja, querem saber exactamente que as regras se aplicam de uma forma acordada legalmente. E isto não era bem um acordo, era um anúncio de concessões unilaterais por parte dos Estados Unidos, em princípio, para poder favorecer o desenvolvimento dos países mais vulneráveis da África.Na realidade, sendo unilateral, pode ser cessado a qualquer altura e é isso que acaba por acontecer agora, porque com essas tarifas que foram anunciadas, tudo o que diz o AGOA deixa de ter efeito.Na prática, como é que estas taxas se traduzem? Ou seja, quais são os produtos mais afectados e como é que os países africanos ou os africanos vão sentir na carteira estas taxas?Na realidade, há poucos países que exportam para os Estados Unidos através do AGOA e que vão ser punidos de uma forma mais directa por estas taxações. Um deles, seguramente, é a África do Sul. É o país que mais exporta em África para os Estados Unidos.Mas, é interessante ver, por exemplo, que, no caso da África do Sul, as exportações mais importantes são viaturas, nomeadamente Mercedes e BMW's. Por isso é que as taxas que são aplicadas aos veículos, em toda a franja de importadores dos Estados Unidos, acabam também por afectar a África do Sul. A África do Sul também exporta aço e exporta muitos produtos agrícolas, nomeadamente cítricos.Em todas estas áreas, quando se reúne o conjunto das exportações, elas representam cerca de 9% das exportações da África do Sul. Claro que é um número importante em matéria comercial, mas não é um número que assuste ou para que a África do Sul deixe de ser um país com capacidade de poder superar esta crise.No caso de países como o Lesoto, Quénia, Gana, alguns países da África do Norte, ou Madagáscar, que exportavam produtos bastante específicos, seja através de commodities soft, como café ou o chá, ou então têxteis - caso do Lesoto e de Madagáscar - as repercussões são muito mais fortes do que na África do Sul, porque uma boa parte dos investimentos que tinham sido feitos por certos investidores era visando o mercado americano. Agora, fica tudo de sobressalto, porque encontrar mercados alternativos demora tempo. Não é impossível, mas demora tempo. Portanto, vão passar por um período muito difícil.Como é que África pode responder a estas taxas? Por exemplo, o Presidente sul-africano falou num novo acordo de comércio bilateral. O que é que se pode esperar, novos acordos bilaterais?No caso concreto da África do Sul, uma boa parte do comércio que é originário dos Estados Unidos em direcção à África do Sul, não é um comércio de produtos propriamente ditos, é de serviços. Portanto, um acordo comercial vai obrigar na mesa das negociações a ver qual é o peso dos serviços e como se pode punir esses serviços. Por exemplo, a actuação das grandes empresas de tecnologia é na área dos serviços e, portanto, pode trazer grandes dificuldades aos Estados Unidos, se o conjunto dos países que beneficiam desse tipo de intervenção vier, eventualmente, a retaliar. Não de uma forma directa - taxação - mas através do impedimento regulatório da actuação de algumas destas empresas de alta tecnologia e outras empresas fornecedoras de serviços.Esta decisão de Washington também tem consequências internas. Pode significar um aumento da inflação, o abrandamento do crescimento económico e levar à ruptura das cadeias de abastecimento globais. Portanto, não é uma decisão sem consequências internas?Eu acho que vai haver grandes repercussões nos Estados Unidos. Vai haver seguramente uma inflação muito mais acelerada, uma recessão económica e, sobretudo, vamos entrar num período em que pode haver uma desvalorização do dólar, que é um dos objectivos indirectos destas medidas.Através da desvalorização do dólar, há a ideia de que as exportações dos Estados Unidos vão ser mais atractivas, porque, hoje em dia, são muito caras e é por isso que os Estados Unidos “não exportam tanto”. Eu acho que é uma falsa premissa, porque a maior parte das exportações dos Estados Unidos, são na área dos serviços e da energia.Em relação à matéria alimentar, por exemplo, a concorrência dos Estados Unidos em relação a outros grandes produtores de alimentos, como é o caso do Brasil, Argentina e também da África do Sul, não chega a ser uma concorrência, porque uma boa parte dessa produção nos Estados Unidos era já altamente subsidiada. Portanto, mesmo que haja um incentivo do dólar a custar menos, se se retira os subsídios, vai haver muitas dificuldades por parte dessas empresas de continuarem a ser competitivas internacionalmente.Para um economista, estas medidas tarifárias são de uma era dos anos 30. Não tem nada a ver com a economia actual, globalizada e integrada. As cadeias de valor que estão super integradas a nível mundial e a lógica que prevalecia até agora, era a lógica de que se produz qualquer produto no sítio onde é mais barato no mundo. Portanto, era já uma competitividade internacional. Esta ideia de que o proteccionismo vai escudar os Estados Unidos desse tipo de desenvolvimento parece-me inverosímil.Nós estamos perante uma ideia que parece ser mais de fundo ideológico do que de fundo racional.

Lester Kiewit speaks to political risk analyst Ziyanda Stuurman about the chances that Agoa can survive as US and SA relations sour. The foundations of the trade agreement are already in tatters as U.S President Donald Trump slaps the country with 31percent trade tariffs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lester Kiewit speaks to Yamkela Fanisi, Ministerial Spokesperson for the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, about the anticipated 25percent U.S imposed import tariff hike on vehicles and motor parts. The state is seeking clarity as the sector prepares for the impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Peter Worthington, Senior Economist at Absa CIB, about the US administration's trade policies and their potential risks to South Africa's economy. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.Thank you for listening to The Money Show podcast.Listen live - The Money Show with Stephen Grootes is broadcast weekdays between 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) on 702 and CapeTalk. There’s more from the show at www.themoneyshow.co.za Subscribe to the Money Show daily and weekly newslettersThe Money Show is brought to you by Absa. Follow us on:702 on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: www.instagram.com/talkradio702702 on X: www.x.com/Radio702702 on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@radio702CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bongani Bingwa discusses the implications of the US administration's 25% tariff on vehicle and light truck imports with Mikel Mabasa, CEO of Naamsa. They explore how this policy change will affect South Africa's automotive manufacturing sector.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Die ANC se nasionale uitvoerende komitee-lid, Parks Tau, sê die party beplan om voort te gaan met besprekings met die Trump-administrasie en ook om die verhoudings met die Verenigde State van Amerika te versterk. Die Trump-administrasie het hulp aan Suid-Afrika weens bekommernisse oor die eiendomsonteiningsbeleid gestaak. Tau sê die jaarlikse konferensie van die voorkeur-handelsooreenkoms, Agoa, vind in die VSA in Junie en Julie plaas, en Suid-Afrika sal ook teenwoordig wees:

Die vakbond Giwusa sê die moontlike opheffing van die Wet op Groei en Geleenthede in Afrika se voordele is deel van president Donald Trump se ekonomiese oorlogvoering. Agoa laat Afrikalande toe om hul produkte belastingvry na Amerika uit te voer, maar die toekoms daarvan is in gedrang, veral weens die gespanne verhouding tussen Suid-Afrika en Amerika. Giwusa se president, Mametlwe Sebei, sê die opheffing van Agoa sal belangrike sektore soos die voertuig-, smelting- en landboubedryf raak:

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), enacted by the United States in 2000, has long been a cornerstone of trade relations between the U.S. and sub-Saharan Africa. By offering duty-free access to the U.S. market for over 6,500 products, AGOA has aimed to spur economic growth, attract investment, and foster development in eligible African nations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daar is heelwat onsekerheid oor die toekoms van AGOA en Suid-Afrika se plek daarin. ʼn Verlies van ons AGOA voordele sal uitvoer laat afneem en ekonomiese groei demp. In hierdie episode wil ek verduidelik wat AGOA is, watter bedrywe geraak word en hoe handel kan lyk sonder die ooreenkoms.Hierdie episode word ondersteun deur die Buro vir Ekonomiese Ondersoek in Stellenbosch.

In this episode of the BizNews Briefing, Citi economist Gina Schoeman suggests South Africa should exit AGOA preemptively, minimizing economic impact but warning of risks to the automotive sector. Russell Lamberti emphasizes broad diplomatic ties. WeBuyCars' CEO reflects on the company's JSE success, while fund manager Sean Peche shares concerns about the US economy and Tesla's decline.

As the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) nears its expiration in September 2025, African nations face uncertainty about their trade relationship with the United States. Enacted in 2000, AGOA has provided duty-free access to the U.S. market for over 1,800 products from eligible sub-Saharan African countries, fostering economic growth, job creation, and export diversification—particularly in textiles and apparel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sara-Jayne speaks to the associate editor at Daily Maverick, Brooks Spector.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Daybreak Africa: The spread of meningitis in the Northern state of Kebbi began late January with over two hundred suspected cases recorded. Plus, South Sudan women make gains in the field of information technology. Malawi lions given birth control to prevent a population boom. South African President Ramaphosa wants to continue trading with the US through AGOA – the African Growth and Opportunity Act. Europe hosts talk on the details of rearming. For these and more, tune in to Daybreak Africa!

Stephen Grootes discusses SA's tax approach with experts and chats to Johann Kotze on agricultural uncertainty and Tebogo "ProVerb" Thekisho on his multifaceted career. In other interviews, Bronwyn Williams, Partner at Flux Trends, reviews the book, Two Thoughts: A Timeless Collection of Infinite Wisdom by Jim O’Shaughnessy & Vatsal Kaushik. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.Thank you for listening to The Money Show podcast.Listen live - The Money Show with Stephen Grootes is broadcast weekdays between 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) on 702 and CapeTalk. There’s more from the show at www.themoneyshow.co.za Subscribe to the Money Show daily and weekly newslettersThe Money Show is brought to you by Absa. Follow us on:702 on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: www.instagram.com/talkradio702702 on X: www.x.com/Radio702702 on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@radio702CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalk See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Johann Kotze, CEO of AgriSA, about the uncertainty faced by South Africa's agricultural sector as a result of Donald Trump's presidency. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.Thank you for listening to The Money Show podcast.Listen live - The Money Show with Stephen Grootes is broadcast weekdays between 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) on 702 and CapeTalk. There’s more from the show at www.themoneyshow.co.za Subscribe to the Money Show daily and weekly newslettersThe Money Show is brought to you by Absa. Follow us on:702 on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: www.instagram.com/talkradio702702 on X: www.x.com/Radio702702 on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@radio702CapeTalk on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: www.instagram.com/capetalkzaCapeTalk on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567CapeTalk on X: www.x.com/CapeTalkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

00:46 Ancient humans made bone tools 1.5 million years agoA 1.5-million-year-old cache of animal-bone tools reveals that ancient humans systematically crafted with this material much earlier than previously thought. Researchers uncovered 27 bone artefacts in Tanzania honed into sharp tools almost 40 cm long. This discovery pushes back the dedicated manufacture of bone tools by around a million years and could have helped these early humans develop new kinds of technology. “This raises a lot of interesting questions,” says study author Ignacio de la Torre.Research Article: de la Torre et al.09:11 Research HighlightsCane toads' remarkable homing abilities, and evidence that the block of rock that makes up southern Tibet originated in what is now Australia.Research Highlight: Take me home, country toadsResearch Highlight: Lhasa′s rocks reveal an Australian birthplace11:45 A trove of antibacterial molecules hidden in human proteinsTo help protect against infection, cells in the body will selectively cut proteins to produce molecules known as antimicrobial peptides, according to new research. A team has found that many potential peptides appear to be locked up within proteins — to get them out, cells shift the activity of a waste-disposal system called the proteasome, known for its role in protein degradation and recycling. In tests, one of these peptides showed efficacy at protecting mice from infection, indicating that these molecules could one day have therapeutic potential.Research Article: Goldberg et al.News and Views: Protein waste turned into antibiotics as a defence strategy of human cells21:08 Briefing ChatAn update on two missions heading to the Moon to look for water, and why fears that a crucial ocean-current system will collapse in the face of climate change may be incorrect.Nature: Meet the ice-hunting robots headed for the Moon right nowNature: Iconic ocean-current system is safe from climate collapse ― for nowSubscribe to Nature Briefing, an unmissable daily round-up of science news, opinion and analysis free in your inbox every weekday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An aggressive attack on Israel and the US by Cyril Ramaphosa in yesterday's Foreign Policy magazine is a doubling down in the ANC president's conflict with the Trump Administration. Political scientist Dr Frans Cronjé says continuing to pull the tail feathers of the American Eagle is going to end very badly well for SA. Ramaphosa appears to have trashed AGOA, and with it a big part of the SA agricultural and motor sector, which rely on duty-free access to the world's biggest market. Cronjé spoke to BizNews founder Alec Hogg.

President Cyril Ramaphosa “just keeps upping the ante” in his dealings with US President Donald Trump, but he “has no advantage”. So says US intelligence analyst, retired Colonel Chris Wyatt. “I think that he wants sanctions…I think he wants to be punished so he can play the role of martyr…I don't know who he thinks is going to come rescue South Africa….” Wyatt says that China, Russia, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, members of BRICS, have not stepped forward to offer anything to fill the gap left by the United States, nor has the European Union.. As for the alleged influence of Elon Musk on foreign policy towards South Africa, he says: “It's not Elon Musk; this predates it. It's been building for a long time…” Wyatt also gives feedback on his meetings with the Afrikaner delegation currently in the States; gives his take on possible sanctions, the future of AGOA - and the permanent loss of PEPFAR. He further explains what is behind Trump's Russia strategy.

Lack of enthusiasm for AGOA or other trade preferences may presage the end of U.S. unilateral market access programs. For more information, listen to today's Two Minutes in Trade.  

As tensions between South Africa and the United States reach boiling point, the prospect of losing AGOA benefits and even diplomatic ties looms large. With billions of dollars in trade and thousands of jobs on the line, Neil Diamond, President of the South African Chamber of Commerce in the U.S., breaks down the economic and political stakes in an exclusive BizNews interview. Can diplomatic efforts salvage the relationship before irreversible damage is done?

In today's BizNews Briefing, we discuss the letter from US Congress members urging President Trump to cut diplomatic ties with South Africa and remove it from AGOA. SA Chamber of Commerce (USA) President Neil Diamond weighs in on the implications. We also explore SA's nuclear energy outlook, the rise of small modular reactors, and key expectations for the SA Budget, including potential VAT changes.

“This is the new reality that we are going to have to face and it is a fantastic opportunity for us to redefine our position away from the US trying to tell us who we can or cannot be, because they really don't care about us” - Ugandan coffee farmer Robert Kabushenga In the year 2000, the United States government set up the African Growth and Opportunity Act also known as AGOA. It's aim was to give qualifying sub-Saharan African countries access to the US market, without paying import taxes, thus promoting economic growth in Africa. But there's no certainty that president Donald Trump will renew the deal when it expires later this year, especially considering many of the moves he's made in recent weeks. His administration cut off financial aid to countries like South Africa and many others around the world. So, what lies ahead for trade relations between Africa and the United States? Presenter: Alan Kasujja Guests: Ugandan coffee farmer Robert Kabushenga, Eswatini economics lecturer Sanele Sibiya and South African exporter Nhlanhla Dlamini

John Maytham speaks to Michael Fridjhon, a highly regarded international wine judge and leading wine writer. He shares his insights on the potential fallout of losing AGOA benefits, what it means for South African wine on the global stage, and whether alternative trade strategies could help safeguard the industry’s future. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bongani Bingwa speaks to Sam Mkokeli, columnist and contributor for the Sunday times to discuss SA’s AGOA lifeline that might be under threat. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Die eskalerende dispuut tussen Amerika en Suid-Afrika het kommer oor Namibië se ekonomie laat ontstaan, met die Bank van Namibië se goewerneur Johannes !Gawaxab wat waarsku oor moontlike destabilisasie. Die Namibiese dollar is gekoppel aan die Suid-Afrikaanse rand, wat dit kwesbaar maak vir fluktuasies, veral as Amerika dalk Suid-Afrika uit die Agoa-handelsooreenkoms skop. Kosmos 94.1 Nuus het met die plaaslike ekonoom Josef Sheehama gesels oor hoe ons invoere uit SA beïnvloed kan word as pryse in die buurland styg.

There is mounting evidence that indicates the United States government may force South Africa to make a once-unthinkable choice: it's either the U.S. or China, but it can't be both. The president addressed the issue this week and said, "the South Africa situation is very dangerous and very bad for a lot of people." The president and his supporters are angry over South Africa's opposition to Israel in the Gaza War, Pretoria's close ties with Washington's rivals in Tehran and Moscow, and the country's multifaceted relationship with China — including its longstanding memberships in the BRICS and the Belt and Road Initiative.  Johannesburg-based political analyst Nkateko Mabasa joins Eric & Cobus to discuss how South Africans, namely President Cyril Ramaphosa, are responding to the intense pressure from the United States and what it means for the Rainbow nation's ties with China. JOIN THE DISCUSSION: X: @ChinaGSProject | @eric_olander | @stadenesque  Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChinaGlobalSouth Now on Bluesky! Follow CGSP at @chinagsproject.bsky.social FOLLOW CGSP IN FRENCH AND ARABIC: Français: www.projetafriquechine.com | @AfrikChine Arabic: عربي: www.alsin-alsharqalawsat.com | @SinSharqAwsat JOIN US ON PATREON! Become a CGSP Patreon member and get all sorts of cool stuff, including our Week in Review report, an invitation to join monthly Zoom calls with Eric & Cobus, and even an awesome new CGSP Podcast mug! www.patreon.com/chinaglobalsouth

Independent analyst Carmen Mpelwane breaks down the Santam update and the significant gap between expected EPS and Heps growth. Harry Scherzer, CEO of Future Forex, discusses the potential risks of South Africa losing its Agoa status. Philip Short from Flagship Asset Management explores how DeepSeek's energy efficiency is unexpectedly boosting the outlook for AI energy companies.

Chinese engagement in Africa is seen by many people as a classic example of neo-colonial exploitation. China, according to the narrative, is merely the latest in a long line of predatory foreigners seeking to drain the continent's vast reserves of oil, minerals, and timber. The narrative that frames the Chinese as the aggressors and Africans as the victims has largely been defined by U.S., European, and Indian entities over the past several decades and fits neatly into African historical traumas that help explain why so many people feel this way even though it doesn't comport with the evidence. This week, Eric, Géraud, and Cobus discuss why these narratives are so durable and then explore the sensitive issue of who should be empowered to tell the China-Africa story. JOIN THE DISCUSSION: X: @ChinaGSProject | @eric_olander | @stadenesque  Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChinaGlobalSouth Now on Bluesky! Follow CGSP at @chinagsproject.bsky.social FOLLOW CGSP IN FRENCH AND ARABIC: Français: www.projetafriquechine.com | @AfrikChine Arabic: عربي: www.alsin-alsharqalawsat.com | @SinSharqAwsat JOIN US ON PATREON! Become a CGSP Patreon member and get all sorts of cool stuff, including our Week in Review report, an invitation to join monthly Zoom calls with Eric & Cobus, and even an awesome new CGSP Podcast mug! www.patreon.com/chinaglobalsouth

South Africa's strained relationship with the United States has been dealt a second blow with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's decision to boycott the G20 Summit in Johannesburg. In this interview with economist Dawie Roodt, he warns: “I think it's pretty much a given that we will not be part of AGOA that much longer - unless we really start taking extraordinary measures to get on the good side of Donald Trump. And if the relations deteriorate even further, I think there's a possibility that it could be some further actions against South Africa, something like levies or import duties. And we have to understand that if we don't polish this guy's ego for one, many other things that we need to do as well….If we don't do that, we're going to pay a very dear price. And South Africa simply cannot afford that.” Roodt also gives his take on Elon Musk's role in the White House. And in his latest economic forecast, Roodt says: “We are in trouble. And it's not only Donald Trump that causes all of that. A lot of that is homemade because of the wrong policies that we've been following locally for, in fact, many decades.”

Stephen Grootes talks to Shane Naidoo, Global Treasury and Trade Management Services Specialist at Nedbank Commercial Banking, about the implications of Trump's tariffs on the African Growth and Opportunity Act.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa poked “the bear in the eye” and gave “the middle finger” to the US when he signed the Land Expropriation Bill. This was the reaction from US inteligence analyst Retired Colonel Chris Wyatt to the announcement by President Donald Trump that he was cutting US funding for South Africa. Reacting to subsequent news that Ramaphosa was looking forward to meeting Trump, Colonel Wyatt said: “But he wasn't asking or hoping to meet with Trump 24 hours ago. Now, was he? Isn't that strange how one tweet changes the entire game? So, you know, Trump is playing three dimensional chess and the ANC is playing checkers. Who do you think is going to win.” Col. Wyatt maintains that South Africa also doesn't deserve the benefits of the AGOA - and charges that the African National Congress (ANC) “runs around like there are no consequences to their actions”.  He predicts there are tough times ahead for South Africa. “…We finally have a new sheriff in town who is not going to let America be taken for suckers…the ANC is ignoring us and we're giving you tons of resources and money and there's a risk to this. So I think what's happening here is that Trump has put down a shot across the bow to warn the ANC that we won't tolerate this.”

Donald Trump roared back into power this week, signing dozens of executive orders on his first day that upended large parts of the U.S. foreign policy agenda. The president withdrew the United States from the World Health Organization, the Paris Climate Accords and froze all new foreign aid initiatives. Ronak Golpadas, a director at the African risk intelligence service Signal Risk and a fellow at the London School of Economics, joins Eric & Cobus to discuss how the dramatic changes that took place in Washington this week impact African countries and China's diplomacy on the continent. JOIN THE DISCUSSION: X: @ChinaGSProject | @eric_olander | @stadenesque  Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChinaGlobalSouth Now on Bluesky! Follow CGSP at @chinagsproject.bsky.social FOLLOW CGSP IN FRENCH AND ARABIC: Français: www.projetafriquechine.com | @AfrikChine Arabic: عربي: www.alsin-alsharqalawsat.com | @SinSharqAwsat JOIN US ON PATREON! Become a CGSP Patreon member and get all sorts of cool stuff, including our Week in Review report, an invitation to join monthly Zoom calls with Eric & Cobus, and even an awesome new CGSP Podcast mug! www.patreon.com/chinaglobalsouth

Join us for the first episode of a special three-part series recorded during the World Economic Forum Annual Meetings in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland (20-24 January). In this episode, Investec CEO Cumesh Moodliar engages in a thought-provoking conversation with host Jeremy Maggs, exploring his hopes and expectations for the event. Discover the key topics that will capture the attention of global business leaders as they gather to discuss the pressing challenges and opportunities facing our world today. 00:00 Introduction 01:30 The impact of Trump's presidency on the global economy 02:30 Predictions for economic growth in South Africa in 2025 04:37 Is South Africa on the right path for growth? 07:56 Global cooperation on the decline 10:32 AGOA and the impact of South Africa's geopolitical positioning 12:13 What will the South African delegation's message be at Davos? 13:04 The investment case for South Africa 14:26 What do investors want to see in South Africa? 15:16 WEF speakers Cumesh is most looking forward to listening to in Davos 16:30 Outro Investec Focus Radio SA

The Nigeria-America Chamber of Commerce has appealed to the incoming Trump administration to renew the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, and the Presidents Emergency Plan for Aids Relief, or PEPFA. President of the chamber Sheriff Balogun told VOA's Chinedu Offor, these policies will boost regional economic growth.

On Daybreak Africa: Dozens more people have been injured and many displaced in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in recent clashes between the Congolese army and M23 fighters, local sources and NGOs said. Plus, Burkina Faso's military leader bans the use of colonial-style wigs by judges. Botswana records grim statistics on gender-based violence. Mozambique's president is sworn in amid tight security and protests. The son of a former Malawi president will explain why he is running for the same high office this year. The Nigeria-America Chamber of Commerce appeals to incoming Trump administration to renew AGOA and PEPFA. President Biden welcomes the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. We'll have an analysis of the ceasefire agreement. Joe Biden also delivers his final speech as president from the White House. For these and more, tune in to Daybreak Africa!

Cosatu verwelkom die Amerikaanse administrasie se uitbreiding van voordele in die Wet op Groei en Geleenthede in Afrika, of Agoa, vir Suid-Afrikaanse uitvoere. Matthew Parks van Cosatu sê die federasie verwelkom ook die Amerikaanse Kongres se beëindiging van 'n wetsontwerp wat daarop gemik is om betrekkinge tussen die VSA en Suid-Afrika, insluitend sy lidmaatskap van Agoa, te hersien en moontlik af te gradeer. Hy sê dit bied sekerheid aan belangrike Suid-Afrikaanse uitvoerbedrywe en bemoedig die betrokke werkers.

Donald Trump will be back in the Oval Office in just over a month after he is inaugurated for his second term as U.S. president on January 20th. While there's concern in some African capitals that Trump may scale back U.S. engagement, there's also a sense of optimism in some countries that he will shake up the system in ways that will give African leaders more access to U.S. policymakers. What is certain, though, is the incoming president's national security team is very hawkish on China, and that will no doubt find its way back to the center of U.S. foreign policy towards the continent. Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and one of Washington's most well-known Africa watchers, joins Géraud and Cobus to share his forecast for what the U.S. strategy towards Africa will look like in the next Trump administration. JOIN THE DISCUSSION: X: @ChinaGSProject | @cgneema | @stadenesque Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChinaGlobalSouth Now on Bluesky! Follow CGSP at @chinagsproject.bsky.social FOLLOW CGSP IN FRENCH AND ARABIC: Français: www.projetafriquechine.com | @AfrikChine Arabic: عربي: www.alsin-alsharqalawsat.com | @SinSharqAwsat JOIN US ON PATREON! Become a CGSP Patreon member and get all sorts of cool stuff, including our Week in Review report, an invitation to join monthly Zoom calls with Eric & Cobus, and even an awesome new CGSP Podcast mug! www.patreon.com/chinaglobalsouth

It took ten years for a sitting U.S. President to again visit a Sub-Saharan country. In Washington, D.C., Congress has less than ten months to get AGOA renewed. Listen to today's Two Minutes in Trade for more information on this topic. 

The re-election of former U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to significantly alter U.S. foreign policy, including its approach to Africa. As seen during Trump's first term, U.S. engagement with the continent is likely to decrease, with a stronger emphasis on countering China's expanding influence in the region. The future of the U.S.-Africa free trade agreement, known as AGOA, is now uncertain, as the incoming administration has signaled plans to introduce protectionist policies. This week, Eric and Cobus are joined by Stewart Patterson, a senior fellow at the Hinrich Foundation, to explore how Trump's return to power could impact Africa and discuss Stewart's recent article on Chinese investments across the continent. SHOW NOTES: The China-Global South Project: Trump, China, and the Rest of Us by Cobus van Staden: https://tinyurl.com/23wh5pxq Hinrich Foundation: How much of China's investment into Africa is real? by Stewart Patterson: https://tinyurl.com/26adq3pp JOIN THE DISCUSSION: X: @ChinaGSProject | @eric_olander | @stadenesque Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ChinaGlobalSouth FOLLOW CGSP IN FRENCH AND ARABIC: Français: www.projetafriquechine.com | @AfrikChine Arabic: عربي: www.alsin-alsharqalawsat.com | @SinSharqAwsat JOIN US ON PATREON! Become a CGSP Patreon member and get all sorts of cool stuff, including our Week in Review report, an invitation to join monthly Zoom calls with Eric & Cobus, and even an awesome new CGSP Podcast mug! www.patreon.com/chinaglobalsouth