South Africa’s Eastern Cape Jendamark Loses $41 Million in Contracts as US 30% Tariffs Hit Citrus, Automotive, Steel Exports

South African company Jendamark Automation has lost contracts worth 750 million rand ($41 million) due to the imposition of new 30% tariffs by the United States under President Donald Trump's administration. The tariffs, which came into effect recently, target key South African industries including citrus, automotive components, and steel. Jendamark Automation, a door manufacturer based in the Eastern Cape with around 350 export-related employees, stated that the US market is no longer commercially viable for its products. The tariff impact threatens the Eastern Cape's industrial sector, particularly its automotive hub, raising concerns about potential de-industrialization and challenges for traditional industries. In response, South African officials plan to seek alternative markets to mitigate the adverse effects on exports. Economists have urged South Africa to adopt a pragmatic approach in dealing with the tariffs, emphasizing the need to move beyond ideological positions.