"It is impossible for the BRICS block of nations, in its current configuration, to even entertain the idea of a common currency": Economist, Khaya Sithole weighs in on impact on US tariffs on SA exports

The National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa (Naamsa) warns that if South African cannot retain markets such as that of the United States of America, the country runs the risk of turning vibrant industrial hubs such as East London in the Eastern Cape, into ghost towns. This comes as the country braces itself for a 30 percent tariff on its exports to the US from tomorrow. Naamsa adds that the announcement and anticipation of the recent tariffs have had a devastating and immediate impact on trade performance - even before the formal effect of the tariffs. CEO, Mikel Mabassa says vehicle exports to the U.S. dropped by 73 percent in the first quarter of 2025, followed by a further decline of 80 percent and 85 percent in April and May, respectively. Sakina Kamwendo spoke to Economist, Khaya Sithole