Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Lesotho Faces Stiff 50% Tariff in New US Trade Measures
Maseru, Lesotho – Lesotho, a landlocked nation in southern Africa, has emerged as one of the countries most severely impacted by recently enacted trade tariffs imposed by the United States. The southern African nation is now subject to a substantial 50% reciprocal tariff, a measure revealed during a speech by the US President at the White House.
Significant Tariff Burden for Lesotho
While the French territory of Saint Pierre and Miquelon is also facing the same 50% levy, the United Kingdom, for example, is subject to a 10% reciprocal tariff. These new trade measures establish a baseline 10% tariff on all imported goods entering the US. However, nations identified as “worst offenders” by the US administration will face considerably higher rates. Among the countries disproportionately affected are Vietnam (46%), Cambodia (49%), and Lesotho, despite established trade relationships with the United States through preferential trade agreements.
Controversy Surrounds US President’s Remarks
Reports indicate officials in Lesotho expressed “shock” regarding recent public comments attributed to the US President. He allegedly stated that “nobody has ever heard of” Lesotho during a Congressional address in March, while criticizing US financial support for LGBTQ+ projects within the country. Lesotho’s Foreign Minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, characterized the statement as “shocking,” highlighting the fact that the US maintains a permanent diplomatic mission in Maseru. Lesotho benefits significantly from the US African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a program intended to facilitate trade access to US markets for select African nations.
Impact on Bilateral Trade and Diplomatic Ties
In 2024, bilateral commerce between the US and Lesotho, primarily consisting of textiles and apparel, reached $240 million, according to US data. Despite the newly implemented tariff increase and the reported suspension of vital funding initiatives, Lesotho’s foreign ministry conveyed to international news outlets that diplomatic relations with the US remain “warm and cordial.” It has been reported that the US administration has also paused contributions to PEPFAR, a major US program dedicated to HIV and TB prevention and treatment. This suspension could potentially introduce instability within Lesotho’s public health services. The US President has defended the newly imposed tariffs as a move towards “economic independence,” stating to supporters that these actions prioritize American workers and national economic interests.
Key Points:
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US Trade with Lesotho
- Bilateral trade volume reached $240 million in 2024.
- Textiles and apparel constitute the majority of exports.
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Diplomatic Relations Remain “Cordial”
- Despite tariff hikes and funding concerns, Lesotho affirms positive relations with the US.
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PEPFAR Funding Uncertainty
- Suspension of US contributions to PEPFAR raises concerns for Lesotho’s health sector.
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“Economic Independence” Rationale
- US President defends tariffs as prioritizing American workers and economic interests.