U.S. snubs South Africa's G20 talks again as tariff tensions strain Africa's trade prospects

Business Insider

2 days ago

For the second time this year, the United States has skipped a key G20 finance meeting hosted by South Africa, raising diplomatic eyebrows and casting a shadow over Africa's efforts to assert its voice in global economic governance.
The United States skipped a pivotal G20 finance meeting in South Africa for the second time this year.
The United States' actions coincide with trade tensions and tariff measures targeting several African nations.
Washington's retreat from such dialogues could hinder Africa's access to global markets and development initiatives.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's absence from the summit in Durban follows a similar no-show at the February gathering in Cape Town, both critical forums for discussing global financial stability, debt restructuring, and inclusive growth.
Josh Lipsky, chair of international economics at the Atlantic Council, told Reuters that the absence of the United States at the G20 finance talks ' raises a deep question ' about the group's credibility, especially without senior political representation from the world's largest economy.
' It raises questions about the G20's long-term viability, ' Lipsky said, adding that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's repeated absence may signal Washington's intention to push for a slimmed-down, 'back to basics' version of the G20 when it assumes the rotating presidency next year.
Trump's showdown with BRICS nations
The snub comes amid rising trade tensions between Washington and several African nations, triggered by President Donald Trump's new tariff measures and warnings to countries seen as aligning with BRICS economic policies.
Recall that President Trump recently threatened to impose a 10% tariff increase on BRICS-affiliated nations that he accused of " aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies."
This warning came on the heels of a 30% tariff already levied on South Africa and other countries the U.S. administration has deemed as opposing its global trade agenda.
With South Africa serving as a key voice for the continent in global economic platforms, the repeated absence of U.S. representation has sparked concerns that Africa's economic priorities may be sidelined in an increasingly polarized global trade environment.