Facing U.S. Tariffs, Africa Eyes Continental Bargaining Power

African leaders are weighing a bold move: negotiating trade with the United States as one united bloc to gain bargaining power.

This comes after the US imposed new tariffs in April 2025, raising costs on nearly all African exports by 10%, and hitting South Africa with a 31% tariff.

The US says these tariffs address trade deficits and security concerns, but they have made African goods much more expensive in the American market.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) now links 1.3 billion people and $3.4 trillion in economic output.

Leaders hope that by working together through the African Union, they can bargain for better trade terms.

The current US tariffs have already wiped out most of the benefits from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which expires in September 2025.

South Africa and Nigeria, responsible for over 90% of the US trade deficit with Africa in 2023, now face major uncertainty.

Facing U.S. Tariffs, Africa Eyes Continental Bargaining Power

The US has also cut aid and imposed visa bans on several African countries. China and Russia have stepped up their trade with Africa.

China’s trade with Africa reached $134.16 billion in the first five months of 2025, up 12.4% from last year.

Russia’s trade hit $24 billion, with plans to grow further. Both countries offer alternatives, but Africa still imports more from them than it exports.

The AfCFTA aims to boost trade within Africa and reduce dependence on outside markets. Experts say Africa’s best chance lies in removing internal trade barriers, investing in infrastructure, and supporting local businesses.

The current standoff with the US shows the risks of relying on external partners, but it also highlights the power Africa could have by acting together.

African governments and businesses now face a clear choice: unite and adapt to new trade realities, or risk falling further behind as global rules change.

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