US tariffs could smash South Africa’s 365-year-old wine industry

CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit speaks to Maryna Calow, Communications Manager for Wines of South Africa.

Listen below: 

Trump slapped all goods imported into the US from South Africa with a 30% tariff, including wine.

On Wednesday, he abruptly paused tariffs on most countries, causing more uncertainty and but massive relief on global markets.

"One has to remember where the South African wine industry sits in the bigger picture... the US... it's the fourth-largest market by value... $36 million of wine was exported to the US in 2024..."

- Maryna Calow, Communications Manager - Wines of South Africa

"At this stage, everything is so speculative, we don't even know how AGOA is impacted... there can be such a quick turnaround in decisions seemingly made... we really can't gauge what the impact will be or where will this see South African wines end up on shelves in the US. We have had lots of indications of what could happen but to give a clear and honest indication is almost impossible."

- Maryna Calow, Communications Manager - Wines of South Africa

If the 30% tariff is engaged, it would impact jobs in the industry.

"Our industry employs roughly 270,000... securing those jobs is what's most important for us... as well as the longevity of an industry that's been around for 365 years... we as an industry will have to rally together to find alternative ways of selling our wines internationally and also growing our local market. There's a lot of opportunity right here on South African shores..."

- Maryna Calow, Communications Manager - Wines of South Africa

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the conversation.