Suggesting a Ban on Mineral Exports to the US as a Countermeasure to Trump’s Aid Ultimatum
The Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has rejected former US President Donald Trump’s warning about cutting aid to South Africa, asserting that the nation can utilize its extensive mineral resources instead.
During his address at the 2025 Investing in African Mining Indaba held in Cape Town on Monday, Mantashe responded to Trump’s recent remarks regarding the US government potentially halting funding, claiming that South Africa is “confiscating land.”
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“I suggested that we should not immobilize Africa. Instead of relying on US funds, let’s consider withholding our minerals from them. If they refuse to provide us with financial support, why should we supply them with our minerals?” Mantashe stated, earning applause from the audience.
Trump’s Controversial Remarks
In a post on Truth Social this past Sunday, Trump accused South Africa of land seizure and maltreatment of certain demographics, labeling it a “massive human rights violation.”
He cautioned that the US would take steps to cut funding until an investigation was performed.
In contrast, the South African Presidency countered Trump’s assertions by underscoring that the Expropriation Act, which was signed last month, does not permit land confiscation. They clarified:
“The South African government has not confiscated any land. The Expropriation Act is a constitutionally mandated legal process designed to ensure equitable land access, adhering to the rule of law.”
Africa’s Leverage in Mineral Trade
Mantashe encouraged African nations to embrace their influence on the global stage, asserting that the continent should proudly leverage its natural resources to secure improved trade agreements.
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“Africa is the richest mining jurisdiction in the world, and we must take advantage of this. If we allow fear to control us, we risk collapsing, even while possessing vast mineral resources,” he explained.
He also voiced concern over China’s control in the chrome market, pointing out that African countries primarily export raw materials, which China accumulates and then saturates the market with, ultimately driving prices down.
US Financial Support to South Africa: Key Points
The Presidency highlighted that US financial aid to South Africa is quite limited, with the most notable contribution originating from Pepfar, the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which provides funding for 17% of South Africa’s HIV/AIDS initiative.
Despite Trump’s threats, the South African government remains receptive to dialogue, expressing its eagerness to engage with the US administration on land reform and matters of bilateral trade.
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