South Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its relationship with the United States
In a recent Interview, BizNews’s Alek Hogg interviews Joel Pollak, a Johannesburg-born Harvard Law School graduate
and senior editor at Breitbart. He is widely considered the frontrunner to become the next US ambassador to South
Africa. Having written extensively on President Donald Trump, Pollak offers key insights into how South Africa can
transform what has become an adversarial relationship into a mutually beneficial partnership under the new Trump
administration.
Pollak explains that President Trump’s interest in South Africa is largely driven by economic and geopolitical factors. He
sees the growing influence of China on the African continent, particularly in South Africa, as a challenge to American
interests. With China’s well-documented strategy of offering loans to African nations and later seizing strategic assets
when debts cannot be repaid, Washington is increasingly concerned about South Africa’s close ties with Beijing.
Additionally, South Africa’s foreign policy decisions—particularly its support for Russia during the Ukraine conflict and its
case against Israel at the International Court of Justice—have put it at odds with both American political parties, not just
the Republicans.
A key strategic concern for the United States is Simon’s Town, a naval base located near the intersection of the Atlantic
and Indian Oceans. Historically significant for global trade and military operations, Simon’s Town remains vital in
controlling shipping routes. With China expanding its influence in the Indo-Pacific region, there is concern that Beijing
could gain a foothold in South Africa through economic means. Pollak emphasizes that South Africa must recognize its
geopolitical significance and use it to its advantage in negotiations with the US.
Diplomatic tensions between Washington and Pretoria have been escalating, with the South African government’s recent
accusation that President Trump spreads "misinformation" further straining relations. Pollak highlights that, in American
politics, labeling someone as a spreader of "misinformation" carries serious implications, as it has been used in attempts
to censor political figures and suppress speech. South Africa’s decision to publicly challenge President Trump on this
front is unlikely to yield positive results.
Instead of engaging in political rhetoric, Pollak suggests that South Africa should take concrete steps to repair relations
with the US. One of the most pressing issues is the Expropriation Act, which has created uncertainty among investors
regarding property rights. Pollak argues that repealing or significantly amending this legislation would help attract foreign
investment. Additionally, he recommends that South Africa withdraw its case against Israel at the International Court of
Justice, a move that has distanced Pretoria from key Western allies and strengthened the perception that it is aligning
with anti-Western forces.
Pollak envisions a scenario where South Africa and the US could establish a bilateral economic agreement beyond
existing trade frameworks like the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). He suggests that if South Africa commits
to economic reforms—such as liberalizing labor laws and securing private property rights—the US could respond with
large-scale investments in infrastructure, energy, and job creation. He notes that South Africa has untapped potential in
both renewable and traditional energy sectors, with the Northern Cape being ideal for solar power development and the
Western Cape offering hydroelectric opportunities. Additionally, new nuclear technologies pioneered in the US could be
deployed in South Africa to help stabilize its energy crisis.
Another potential avenue for strengthening US-South Africa relations is the Olympic Games. Pollak notes that Egypt has
expressed interest in hosting the first-ever Olympics in Africa, but he argues that South Africa should pursue this
opportunity with US backing. A successful Olympic bid could drive massive infrastructure development and stimulate
economic growth, much like the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Ultimately, Pollak believes that South Africa needs to approach President Trump differently. As a transactional leader, he
values tangible commitments over diplomatic pleasantries. By making strategic policy adjustments, South Africa could
not only repair its relationship with the US but also unlock economic opportunities that could create millions of jobs.
Pollak warns that simply criticizing President Trump will not change the trajectory of US-South Africa relations, but a
pragmatic and cooperative approach could yield long-term benefits.
Listen to this Blog
South Africa - News
How South Africa Can Turn Trump’s Presidency
Into an Economic Opportunity
Copyright © 2025 globalgrype.com
All rights Reserved