South Africa Finance Chief Says G-20 Closer to Deal on Communique

Trade Negotiations between US and South Africa - South Africa is developing a document, potentially a template, for trade negotiations with the US [1] - The current tariffs could put 100,000 jobs at stake [2] - The US has a surplus on the treaty side, requiring a balancing act to achieve equilibrium between the two nations [3] - The automobile industry and strategic areas may be affected by the trade deal [4] - Failure to reach a deal could result in job losses, with over 2,000 jobs potentially impacted down the value chain [5] - The primary concern is to finalize the trade deal by August 1st, or to secure an extension [6] Economic Concerns and Strategies - Losing a trading partner like the US could significantly impact the economy and increase unemployment [7] - South Africa recently obtained a loan from the World Bank [11] - A total loan of approximately 4 billion Rand is expected by the end of the year, staggered for municipalities and policy loop [13] - South Africa is open to issuing Eurobonds for financing [13][14] G20 and Global Issues - The hope is to achieve an agreement and emerge with a communique [7] - Sticking points in the G20 include sustainable finance and global imbalances [8][9] - The US's stance on climate change and climate finance is creating difficulties in the G20 debate [9] - Global imbalances are a sensitive issue, particularly concerning China [9][10]