U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited tensions with Pretoria, calling for South Africa’s expulsion from the Group of 20 (G20) and questioning its economic credibility ahead of this month’s leaders’ summit in Johannesburg.
South Africa has dismissed the remarks, insisting preparations for the global gathering remain firmly on track.
Trump Questions South Africa’s Place in G20
Speaking at a conference in Miami on Wednesday, Trump questioned South Africa’s continued membership in the G20 and announced that he would not attend the upcoming summit, sending Vice President JD Vance in his place.
Notably, the United States is scheduled to assume the G20 presidency after South Africa’s term concludes later this year.
Trump’s comments are the latest in a series of criticisms he has directed at South Africa, the continent’s largest economy, including claims that the government discriminates against its white minority, allegations that Pretoria and independent observers have repeatedly dismissed as false.
Pretoria Stands Firm
In response, presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said South Africa remained confident in its ability to host a “successful and inclusive” summit, adding that preparations were continuing as scheduled.
“The government of South Africa is fully prepared to deliver a productive G20 summit that reflects the priorities of both developed and developing economies,” Magwenya told the BBC.
How South Africa Joined the G20
South Africa has been a member of the G20 since its inception in 1999, when the group was established following the Asian financial crisis to strengthen global financial stability.
Canada and the United States were instrumental in supporting the country’s inclusion to ensure Africa was represented within the group. Then–U.S. President Bill Clinton and Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien were key advocates for expanding the forum beyond industrialized nations.
South Africa’s membership was also supported by other G7 countries seeking a diverse and globally representative mix of emerging economies, alongside Brazil, India, China, and Mexico.
Its inclusion reflected its status as Africa’s most industrialized economy and a leading voice for the continent in global economic governance.
Focus on Solidarity and Equality
This year’s G20 theme, Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability, reflects South Africa’s focus on inclusive growth and global cooperation.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said the agenda builds on the country’s post-apartheid experience of reconciliation and equitable development.
“Drawing on our own journey from racial and ethnic division to democracy, South Africa is uniquely positioned to champion within the G20 a future of genuine solidarity, where shared prosperity bridges deep inequalities,” Phiri said in a statement to the BBC.
“And collective action for sustainability that centres development to address the impact of colonialism on the African continent.” He added.
Strained Relations with Washington
Relations between Washington and Pretoria have been strained in recent months following South Africa’s land reform legislation allowing limited expropriation without compensation.
Authorities said claims of a “white genocide” in the country were not supported by credible evidence, noting that national crime data show no indication that white citizens are more likely to be victims of violent crime than other groups.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s attempt to ease tensions with a visit to the White House in May did little to improve relations. The United States later imposed 30% tariffs on selected South African exports; the highest in sub-Saharan Africa.
Summit to Proceed Despite Tensions
The G20 summit, set to take place in Johannesburg later this month, will bring together leaders from the world’s largest economies, as well as representatives from the European Union and the African Union, to discuss global growth, development, and sustainability.
