Ramaphosa Faces Questions in Parliament on US Tariffs, Postbank, National Dialogue, G20 Presidency, Deputy Ministers, and GBV Response
Cape Town – 9 September 2025
President Cyril Ramaphosa responded to a wide range of questions from Members of Parliament during an oral reply session in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
US Tariffs:
Responding to the Economic Freedom Fighters’ Julius Malema, Ramaphosa said government is in continued talks with the United States following the imposition of 30% tariffs on South African products by US President Donald Trump. He confirmed that officials are negotiating a trade and investment package with US counterparts while also working to diversify export markets and support local companies through initiatives such as the Localisation Support Fund and Export and Competitiveness Support Programme.
Postbank Licensing:
Answering the ANC’s Mervyn Ntuli, Ramaphosa reaffirmed government’s commitment to financial inclusion, particularly for underserved communities. He noted that the Postbank has not yet met all regulatory conditions for a full commercial banking licence, citing governance and prudential compliance issues. Capitalisation will only follow once the licence is granted.
National Dialogue:
Democratic Alliance MP George Michalakis asked about the objectives of the National Dialogue. Ramaphosa said the process is citizen-led and designed to give South Africans a platform to shape solutions to national challenges. The first National Convention in August brought together more than 1,000 delegates from over 200 organisations, who identified nine key themes including jobs, crime, education, gender equality, and environmental justice.
G20 Presidency:
To a question from ANC MP Malebona Modise-Mpya, the President reported that South Africa’s G20 Presidency has received strong international support under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” He said 87 of 132 official meetings have been concluded, with priorities focusing on disaster resilience, debt sustainability, just energy transition, and critical minerals. The Johannesburg summit in November will adopt a Leaders’ Declaration reflecting South Africa’s agenda.
Deputy Ministers:
ActionSA’s Athol Trollip questioned the cost of 42 Deputy Ministers. Ramaphosa defended their role, stating that Deputy Ministers provide essential support and political oversight in government departments. He said their appointments reflect the need for inclusivity in the current Government of National Unity.
Gender-Based Violence and Femicide:
In response to ANC MP Thandiwe Chauke-Adonis, Ramaphosa said the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide will be established on 1 April 2026 with ring-fenced funding approved by National Treasury. He highlighted ongoing work under the National Strategic Plan, including sexual offences courts, Thuthuzela Care Centres, GBV desks, psychosocial support, and women’s economic empowerment initiatives.
