Five key takeaways from the Trump–Xi state visit to Washington: pageantry over breakthroughs, AI divides, a brief trade truce extension, Iran talks and Taiwan warnings.
Iran's annual BRICS trade reached about $60bn, with $23bn in exports and $37bn in imports, yet officials say full economic benefits of membership remain unrealised.
Trade expert says political tensions between Washington and Pretoria are unlikely to halt R260bn of South African exports to the US, driven by gold and platinum.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa will continue negotiating with the US over trade and raised concerns, while protecting its sovereignty and dignity.
President Ramaphosa says South Africa is working to restore direct flights to India to boost tourism, trade and corporate links, reversing a route cut in 2015.
Ronald Lamola urged the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi‑National Commission to turn historic ties into concrete programmes for jobs, trade, border and migration cooperation.
South African citrus exports reached $2.53bn in 2025 and a new cold-treatment agreement opens wider access to India, though tariffs remain a concern.
At the 46th SADC Summit in Durban, President Ramaphosa called for One-Stop Border Posts, faster infrastructure and energy expansion to boost regional integration and jobs.
South Africa spent nearly $18m on repatriations; 82,875 people have been deported or repatriated. The country must balance border control with humane enforcement.
A University of Johannesburg seminar argued South Africa should learn from China’s disciplined long-term planning and implementation, while strengthening its institutions.