WATCH: SA’s new US ambassador opportunity – CRA

As South Africa recalibrates its place in an increasingly polarised global economy, the arrival of a new United States ambassador in Pretoria comes at a particularly sensitive moment. Trade, investment flows, geopolitical alignment and diplomatic signalling are now more tightly intertwined than at any point since the early 1990s – and South Africa’s choices are being scrutinised more closely in Washington than many policymakers may care to admit.

The United States remains one of South Africa’s most important trading partners and a critical source of investment, technology transfer and market access, particularly through frameworks such as AGOA. Yet the bilateral relationship is under strain, shaped by South Africa’s foreign policy positioning, its engagement with BRICS partners, and growing US concerns around strategic alignment, governance and rule-of-law issues. Navigating this relationship will require diplomatic finesse, economic pragmatism and a clear-eyed understanding of how Washington views South Africa’s role in a contested global order.

It is against this backdrop that the Centre for Risk Analysis hosted a timely webinar in which Terence Corrigan is joined by Chris Hattingh to unpack what the incoming US ambassador’s tenure could mean for South Africa. The discussion explores the risks, opportunities and strategic choices facing policymakers and business leaders alike as South Africa seeks to protect its trade interests while managing an increasingly complex relationship with one of its most consequential partners.