Did Botswana trade-off its minerals for U.S. tariff relief?

The proposal, tabled last month by Vice President Ndaba Gaolathe and Trade Minister Tiroeaone Ntsima during talks with U.S. officials, reportedly includes exploration rights in three high-value geological zones.

The discussions come as Botswana races to protect its diamond exports from crippling U.S. tariffs, which were slashed from 37% to 15% in April. Botswana President Duma Boko warned in July that “these punitive measures threaten the sustainability of Botswana’s diamond industry and present a serious obstacle to broader economic growth across Africa.”

While officials insist negotiations are ongoing, there are fears the trade-off could weaken local beneficiation efforts, undermine partnerships with companies such as Debswana, and compromise transparency by bypassing parliamentary debate, Africa Relief reports.

A document titled “Botswana Strategic Bilateral Engagement on U.S. Reciprocal Tariffs” outlined not only mineral access but also U.S. investment opportunities in energy, technology, infrastructure, and health. The government pledged to ease entry through its One Stop Service Centre, reduce non-tariff barriers, and align with U.S. product standards. 

In return, the US promised to share a framework of its specific trade concerns. The general fear is that granting “first-mover rights” to American companies risks sidelining local communities and breaching mineral rights laws.

Professor Kekgaoditse Suping of the University of Botswana argued that while tariff relief could shield jobs and strengthen Botswana’s role in the green economy, safeguards on skills transfer, equity participation, and accountability are essential.

Officials, however, have downplayed the controversy. Trade Minister Ntsima dismissed concerns as “speculative” and cited a non-disclosure agreement preventing further detail. Permanent Secretary Joel Ramaphoi stressed that the government remains confident in securing full tariff elimination.