The South African government has given Taiwan until the end of March to relocate its de facto embassy from Pretoria, the Taiwanese Foreign Ministry announced, attributing the move to increasing pressure from China.
South Africa cut official ties with Taiwan in 1997, maintaining only close diplomatic and economic relations with China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory with no right to statehood.
In a statement issued late Sunday, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry revealed that South Africa had formally requested the relocation of the Taipei Liaison Office from Pretoria and suggested it be renamed as a trade office. The ministry described the demand as a clear sign of China’s growing influence in South Africa but noted that negotiations were ongoing.
China Backs South Africa’s Decision
China’s Foreign Ministry responded to the development, praising South Africa as a “good friend and partner” while reiterating the One China Principle, which considers Taiwan a part of China.
“Taiwan independence does not enjoy popular support and will fail,” China’s ministry said.
A spokesperson for South Africa’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the request, stating that discussions were underway to ensure Taiwan’s diplomatic presence accurately reflects its status in line with South Africa’s foreign policy.
Growing Chinese Influence in South Africa
South Africa has deep economic ties with China, its largest trading partner, and is expanding cooperation in renewable energy and other sectors. The decision to push Taiwan’s office out of Pretoria further aligns with Beijing’s geopolitical interests.
Taiwan, which rejects China’s sovereignty claims, maintains formal diplomatic ties with only 12 countries globally. In Africa, its sole remaining ally is Eswatini, a small kingdom bordering South Africa.
