South Africa faces the highest rate in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting Trump's strained relationship with the government of President Cyril Ramaphosa. Other African nations, including Nigeria, Ghana, Lesotho and Zimbabwe have been hit with a 15% tariff, which will also come into effect in seven days.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that South African products exported to the US will face a 30% tariff from 7 August.

The president backed off his call for a 50 percent tariff on Lesotho, imposing 15 percent instead. But in a country where most people live hand-to-mouth, the damage was already done.