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<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe expansion of New Balance in South Africa comes despite an increase in tensions between South Africa and the world\u2019s largest economy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The USA recently skipped the G20 conference in Johannesburg, with Donald Trump\u2019s administration having a poor view of South Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trump imposed 30% tariffs on South Africa earlier this year. Although deemed reciprocal, the US government examined trade data rather than the actual tariffs that South Africa imposes on the US. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
South Africa has also lost access to AGOA, which allowed for duty-free imports into America across a wide range of goods, especially manufactured and agricultural products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The administration has also repeatedly claimed that South Africa is seeing a genocide directed against white citizens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While South Africa does have high crime rates, no evidence suggests that white South Africans are being directly targeted in a genocide, and they remain comfortably the wealthiest race in the country. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nevertheless, US representatives have submitted Bills that look to impose sanctions on senior ANC officials. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Republican Representative Ronny Jackson introduced a bill earlier this year, which called for ANC members to face consequences for their ties to China, Russia, Iran and Hamas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Despite the troubled relationships, American businesses still seem keen on South Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Walmart opened its first branded store in South Africa, years after acquiring Massmart, the owner of Makro and Game. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Microsoft also recently announced a multi-billion-dollar investment in South Africa, with a specific focus on artificial intelligence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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