Washington D.C. – The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated a Section 301 investigation into South Africa, alongside 59 other economies, to determine potential “unfair trade” practices. The move, announced on March 13, 2026, signals a broadening of the US government’s efforts to address trade imbalances and protect American businesses.
The investigation will primarily focus on whether these countries are adequately prohibiting the importation of goods produced with forced labor, but could extend to encompass a range of other potentially unfair trade practices. USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer stated the goal is to ensure a level playing field for American workers and firms competing in the global market.
This action comes amid already strained trade relations between the US and South Africa, marked by disagreements over several key issues. The investigation adds another layer of complexity to the relationship, potentially leading to tariffs or other trade restrictions.
Section 301 Investigation: A Closer Look
The USTR’s investigation is authorized under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the US to address “unjustifiable, unreasonable, or discriminatory foreign government practices” that burden or restrict US commerce. Section 301(b) specifically enables the USTR to launch investigations independently.
According to Greer, the investigation will assess whether the acts, policies, or practices of the 60 economies under review are unreasonable or discriminatory and negatively impact US commerce. The USTR has requested consultations with the governments of these countries and will hold public hearings on April 28, 2026, to gather input. Interested parties are invited to submit written comments and requests to appear at the hearing by April 15, 2026.
“If they can’t resolve it, then People can impose a tariff or fee. We’re trying to move incredibly quickly. We’re trying to move in a matter of months,” Greer said, signaling a potentially swift resolution to the investigation.
Broader Concerns and Potential Impacts
The scope of the investigation extends beyond forced labor, potentially encompassing issues like subsidies, excess capacity, and the allowance of goods produced with forced labor into domestic markets. Greer clarified in a statement to CNBC that the USTR aims to quantify any harm to US commerce resulting from these practices and seek resolutions with the countries involved.
The 60 countries under investigation include major US trade partners such as Canada, China, Mexico, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. A complete list of the countries involved can be found here.
Escalating Tensions with South Africa
The investigation into South Africa occurs against a backdrop of increasing friction between the two nations. The Trump Administration has adopted a more assertive stance towards South Africa since taking office in January 2025, implementing a “reciprocal tariff” regime that significantly impacted South African exports and even boycotting a G20 summit held in South Africa in November 2025.
There have also been ongoing discussions regarding South Africa’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was renewed in February and remains in effect until December 31, 2026. While the extension of AGOA provides some stability, the list of eligible countries is subject to change.
Negotiations between the South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and its US counterpart to secure a more favorable trade deal have been unsuccessful since April 2025, reportedly due to “political and ideological barriers.”
Recently, US Ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell, presented a list of “five asks” to the South African government aimed at improving relations. These requests reportedly relate to farm murders and rural crime, the use of the phrase “kill the boer,” expropriation without compensation, Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) rules, and South Africa’s foreign policy alignments. Bozell stated that Washington is “running out of patience” due to the lack of response from Pretoria. Current Affairs ZA reports that the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation has since issued a démarche to Bozell regarding his comments.
The USTR’s investigation is expected to further complicate the already challenging trade relationship between the United States and South Africa. The outcome of the investigation and the subsequent negotiations will likely have significant implications for both economies.
What comes next will depend on the consultations between the USTR and South Africa, as well as the findings of the investigation. The April 28th hearings will be a critical juncture in determining the future of US-South Africa trade relations. Share your thoughts on this developing story in the comments below.
