Lesotho’s economy, heavily reliant on textiles and diamonds, now faces a crisis under President Trump’s 50% tariffs—a move that could also undermine global climate efforts.
According to BBC News, the U.S. imported 237.3 million goods from Lesotho in 2024—primarily textiles and diamonds—while exporting only 2.8 million in return. This massive trade deficit made Lesotho a prime target for Trump’s new “reciprocal tariffs,” which aim to reduce America’s trade imbalances.
The tariffs come as the U.S. slashes foreign aid, including programs supporting climate resilience and sustainable development in Africa. Already grappling with droughts and food insecurity, Lesotho relied on USAID for health and environmental initiatives—now at risk under Trump’s budget cuts. Meanwhile, canceling the Paris Agreement weakens global climate financing, making it harder for developing nations to adapt.
Diamond mining, a key export for Lesotho, is also under scrutiny. While the industry fuels economic growth, environmentalists warn of water depletion and land degradation—issues that could worsen without U.S.-backed sustainability programs.
Trade experts call the move “ironic”—punishing a country for succeeding under a U.S.-backed program. Meanwhile, other African nations like Madagascar (47%) and South Africa (30%) also face steep tariffs, signalling a shift in U.S. trade policy that could reshape Africa’s economic ties with America.
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