CheckPoint Podcast | Is South Africa’s Foreign Policy Failing Its Economy? Thembisa Fakude

Is South Africa’s foreign policy advancing its economic interests, or is the country losing valuable opportunities in an increasingly divided world? Nkepile Mabuse speaks to international relations analyst Thembisa Fakude about the economic consequences of global conflict, South Africa’s relationships with China and Europe, the effectiveness of BRICS, and the impact of US tariffs on trade.

As South Africans face fuel-price pressures and businesses struggle to compete internationally, Fakude questions whether the country has clearly defined its national interests. The conversation also examines missed diplomatic opportunities, the need to strengthen domestic businesses and the potential of maritime trade. Is South Africa doing enough to turn international relationships into meaningful economic gains?

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Chapter List
(00:00) – South Africa’s Foreign Policy And Economic Future

(00:24) – Iran Conflict: What It Means For Fuel Prices

(03:00) – Trump, Global Instability And South Africa’s Economic Exposure

(05:01) – Can South Africa Still Depend On European Investment?

(07:42) – Is South Africa Getting Enough From China?

(10:03) – Could African Cooperation Unlock Maritime Trade?

(11:16) – BRICS And US Tariffs: Where Was The United Front?

(14:06) – Is BRICS Membership Delivering Value For South Africa?

(18:24) – Who Is Helping South African Businesses Compete Globally?

(21:05) – The Trump–Ramaphosa Meeting: A Missed Opportunity?

(23:49) – AGOA And US Tariffs: Is South Africa Losing Out?

(27:00) – Why Africa Struggles To Negotiate As An Equal

(30:14) – Could Maritime Trade Transform South Africa’s Economy?