Storyline: The United States' so-called "reciprocal tariff" policy weaponizes trade as a political tool, targeting countries that oppose its diplomatic stance, said a South African economist in an interview. This sentiment follows U.S. President Donald Trump's signing of an executive order imposing a 30 percent tariff on imports from dozens of countries, including South Africa. The policy, part of a broader U.S. strategy to address perceived trade imbalances, has sparked concerns about its political motives and impact on international trade relations. In an exclusive interview with China Central Television (CCTV), Azar Jammine remarked that although the tariff increase is framed as an "economic measure, " he believes it is fundamentally driven by a political agenda. "I believe the South Africa will be imposed the 30 percent tariff increase and a lot of that is for political reasons. There are a number of things that have upset the Americans about South Africa. The fact that South Africa called Israel to the International Court of Justice on grounds of genocide and the fact that South Africa is the government is pursuing a policy of black economic empowerment, and according to the Americans, embarking upon a policy of 'white genocide'," said Jammine. South Africa's trade ties with the U.S., traditionally supported by agreements such as the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), have come under increased pressure. As South Africa strives to remain competitive in global markets, the tariff presents new challenges. In response, South Africa's Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition issued a statement on July 31 outlining emergency measures to assist affected exporters. These include consulting services, market guidance, and strategies to diversify trade partnerships. The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting domestic employment and ensuring resilience in key export industries, including automobiles, agriculture, and steel. The statement highlights that tariff escalation poses a direct threat to South Africa's export capacity, urging a swift and strategic response to maintain the nation's trade competitiveness. Shotlist: FILE: Pretoria, South Africa - Aug 2023: 1. National flag of South Africa FILE: Johannesburg, South Africa - February, 2025: 2. Aerial shot of cityscape South Africa - Recent: 3. SOUNDBITE (English) Azar Jammine, economist in South Africa (partially overlaid with shot 4): "I believe the South Africa will be imposed the 30 percent tariff increase and a lot of that is for political reasons. There are a number of things that have upset the Americans about South Africa. The fact that South Africa called Israel to the International Court of Justice on grounds of genocide and the fact that South Africa is, the government is pursuing a policy of black economic empowerment, and according to the Americans, embarking upon a policy of 'white genocide'." [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] FILE: Cape Town, South Africa - June 2025: 4. Various of port scene, traffic, cargo ship sailing [SHOT OVERLAYING SOUNDBITE] FILE: Cape Town, South Africa - April 2025: 5. Various of people working in car manufacturing plant, auto parts, production line FILE: Cape Town, South Africa - June 2025: 6. Aerial shot of harvested citrus FILE: Washington D.C., USA - Oct 2024: 7. Various of White House FILE: New York City, USA - Oct 2024: 8. Various of port scene, Statue of Liberty FILE: Los Angeles, USA - Date Unknown: 9. Various of Port of Los Angeles. [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]