** The new wave of customs duties by Donald Trump: a surprising economic impact on Africa **
On April 2, 2025, American president Donald Trump announced a strategy of commercial protectionism which could redefine the world economic landscape, especially for African countries. The establishment of a wave of customs duties on imports from 51 African nations, with rates varying from 10 % to 50 %, raises many questions. At first glance, these measures can be interpreted as a simple economic maneuver, but by digging under the surface, it is crucial to understand the potential ramifications on Africa, a continent whose integration into the global economy is still underway.
### An avoidable or inevitable economic storm?
Lesotho is the country most penalized by these measures, with a customs right reaching an alarming summit of 50 %. It is indicative that this country, whose economy is strongly dependent on the export of textiles to the United States, is at the heart of this storm. For a country that draws its growth from the manufacturing sector, this monumental increase could have devastating effects not only on the local economy but also on Lesemplois. Far from being isolated, Lesotho represents a microcosm of the challenges faced by many African countries, which already fight against alarming poverty and hard and delicate infrastructures.
### Relevant statistics
To put things in perspective, total exports of sub-Saharan African countries to the United States quantified at 29.3 billion USD in 2023. However, these figures hide the fragility of the economies of the continent. Brut oil, precious metals and precious stones dominate the table, but what about the creation of added value through the manufacturing sector? In 2023, cars and clothing represented only 1.7 billion USD and 1.4 billion USD, respectively, which is derisory compared to other exports.
In this perspective, the report of the office of the US trade in trade highlights a disturbing trend: the ineffective of African economies, forced to operate in an environment of dependence rather than economic sovereignty. The rise of these customs rights is therefore not just a matter of unlimited trade, but an alarm signal for a structural transformation which must be made on the continent.
### The path of innovation and diversification
Far from burying hope, this situation could encourage African nations to reinvent themselves. By diversifying their exports and encouraging an innovation -based local industry, African countries could potentially overshadow the immediate challenges posed by these new pricing measures. However, the problem lies in political will: the urgent need for infrastructure, education and human resources.
Countries such as Rwand, with its technology initiatives, could serve as models. By promoting a skilled workforce and an entrepreneurial culture, Rwanda already produces an increasing number of start-ups oriented towards innovation. Beyond the simple reaction to tariff measures, a strong commitment to research and development could change the situation. The contribution of foreign investments, the revitalization of commercial policies, and the constitution of innovative partnerships are all axes to consider.
### A call for resilience
It is undeniable that this new wave of customs duties imposed by the Trump administration could have deep repercussions on African economies. However, this upheaval can also be perceived as an opportunity or a challenge to be met. Through collaborative dynamic, strengthening local capacities and resilient vision, Africa once again will be at the crossroads, while standing out in a commercial world in perpetual evolution.
It is essential that African governments, economic actors and civil society collaborate to develop strategic approaches. This should not be a reaction of despair, but rather an appeal to action to engage in the more united and economic future. In this era, resilience will be at the crossroads of innovation, diversification and the defense of regional interests.
In conclusion, although new customs duties can appear as an immediate obstacle, it is crucial to consider them as a catalyst for a necessary change. This is where the essence of Africa often lies: in the ability to transform challenges into opportunities and redefine in the face of adversity. Africa, with its wealth and diversity, has the potential to come back stronger and write a new chapter in its economic history.