South Africa has tried for months to negotiate a deal with Washington and offered to buy U.S. liquefied natural gas and invest in American industries in exchange for a lower tariff.

Jendamark Automation employs 500 people at its South African factory, where it produces powertrains, catalytic converters, and electric vehicle components, as well as vehicle assembly systems and software.

South Africa, which has a strained relationship with President Trump, is the only African country singled out in the announcement with a 30% tariff increase on August 7.