Mashatile Urges South Africa to Stop Begging Trump, Seek Alternative Markets

From Begging to Building: Mashatile’s Trade Message

In a firm address at the Oviler Reginald Tambo memorial lecture on Monday, ANC Deputy President Paul Mashatile sent a clear message to South Africa’s policymakers: stop waiting on Washington.

Amid the fallout from America’s 30% import tariffs imposed in August, Mashatile argued that South Africa must actively pursue alternative markets instead of “begging” the US for leniency.

“We must not sit and say let’s go and beg [Donald Trump]. We need to go to other markets. When America hits us with high tariffs, we must know we have other trading partners,” Mashatile said.

Drawing from history, he noted how South Africa once turned to the Soviet Union when Western powers refused to support the liberation struggle, emphasizing that the lesson of resilience remains relevant.

Rethinking Trade: Africa First

Mashatile highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key opportunity, urging that South Africa ensure local businesses and citizens directly benefit.

“The minerals we have must be of benefit to South Africans first before we export. Local beneficiation means producing goods here at home, hiring South Africans, and growing our economy,” he said.

This push aligns with ongoing debates in Parliament and civil society about how the country can leverage BRICS and African trade partnerships while protecting domestic interests. Political voices, including the Economic Freedom Fighters, have consistently argued for expanding trade beyond traditional Western markets.

Jobs, Skills, and Economic Growth

Beyond trade, Mashatile stressed the need to reignite South Africa’s economy and harness local talent. He called on the government to hire skilled professionals in key positions to ensure the state can deliver essential services efficiently.

“When we hire people with capacity, the state will be able to deliver,” Mashatile said.

His remarks highlight a broader strategy: by combining trade diversification, local beneficiation, and strong governance, South Africa can build economic independence rather than rely on external goodwill.

Social Media Buzz and Public Reaction

Mashatile’s speech sparked lively debate on social media. Many applauded his emphasis on African markets and local job creation, while others questioned whether South Africa has the infrastructure and policy framework to fully capitalize on AfCFTA and BRICS trade opportunities.

A Call to Action

For Mashatile, the message is clear: South Africa must pivot from reactive diplomacy to proactive economic strategy. Diversifying trade, ensuring local benefits from minerals and manufacturing, and investing in capable governance are all steps toward a resilient, self-reliant economy.

“When the West troubles us, we must know we have other friends where we are going to continue to trade,” he concluded.

South Africa’s next moves on trade and local beneficiation will likely be closely watched, both in Pretoria and in international markets.