US to Strip South Africa and Rwanda of Duty-Free Trade Access Amid Strained Relations

The United States plans to terminate duty-free access to its market for South Africa and Rwanda by the end of 2026. This decision escalates pressure on the two African nations, whose relations with Washington have been strained over foreign policy and regional security concerns. Notably, Rwanda's alleged support for the M23 rebel movement in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is a key factor, with implications for critical mineral supply chains, as the DRC is vital for minerals like cobalt and copper.