In a move underscoring its commitment to the One China policy, South Africa has formally requested the Taipei Liaison Office (TLO) to relocate its offices from Pretoria to Johannesburg. The decision, communicated through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), has sparked international debate, with Taiwan refusing to comply and critics accusing South Africa of bowing to Chinese pressure. Here’s what you need to know about this diplomatic development.
The Background: A Longstanding Request
South Africa first requested the relocation of the TLO in December 2023, followed by reminders in April and October 2024. The latest ultimatum, issued in early 2025, gives Taiwan until the end of March to move its offices.
The relocation is part of South Africa’s effort to align with standard diplomatic practices. DIRCO has emphasized that the move would reflect the non-political and non-diplomatic nature of South Africa’s relationship with Taiwan. Since severing formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1998, South Africa has recognized the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as the sole legitimate representative of China.
The TLO, established in Pretoria after 1998, was intended to facilitate economic relations between South Africa and Taiwan. Today, Taiwan operates over 400 factories in South Africa, and bilateral trade between the two nations exceeds $2 billion annually. Despite these economic ties, South Africa remains steadfast in its adherence to the One China policy.
Taiwan’s Resistance and International Reactions
Taiwan has rejected South Africa’s request, arguing that the decision undermines ongoing negotiations between Taipei and Pretoria. However, this stance overlooks the fact that South Africa’s initial request was made over a year ago, with no response from Taiwan.
Critics, particularly in the West, have accused South Africa of succumbing to Chinese pressure. Ted Cruz, a member of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, claimed that South Africa’s decision “alienates the United States and its allies.” Similarly, Senator Marsha Blackburn called for South Africa’s removal from the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a trade agreement that grants duty-free access to the US market for select African countries.
These reactions highlight a broader trend: the West’s discomfort with South Africa’s independent foreign policy decisions. South Africa has faced criticism for its close ties with China, its neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, and its criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The One China Policy and South Africa’s Sovereignty
South Africa’s decision is firmly rooted in its foreign policy principles. During his state visit to China in 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to the One China policy, describing it as a cornerstone of the two nations’ comprehensive strategic partnership.
The relocation request is not unique to South Africa. Many countries, including BRICS members like Brazil, Russia, and India, host similar Taiwanese offices in their capitals without diplomatic recognition. The suggestion that China pressured South Africa specifically lacks credibility, especially given the 58 countries with which China has significant economic leverage.
Why Johannesburg?
The move from Pretoria to Johannesburg is symbolic and practical. Johannesburg is South Africa’s economic hub, making it a more fitting location for a trade-focused office. The relocation also aligns with South Africa’s efforts to streamline its diplomatic engagements and reinforce its commitment to the One China policy.
The Bigger Picture: Sovereignty and Global Politics
South Africa’s decision highlights its determination to assert sovereignty in foreign policy. The backlash from the US and its allies underscores the challenges faced by nations pursuing independent diplomatic paths in a polarized global landscape.
Critics of South Africa’s decision have failed to identify any international law violated by the relocation request. Instead, their objections reflect the pervasive influence of the “China Threat” narrative, which often frames China’s actions as inherently coercive, even in cases where sovereign decisions are made independently.
What’s Next?
As the March 2025 deadline approaches, South Africa remains firm in its stance. The relocation of the TLO is not just a logistical move but a reaffirmation of South Africa’s commitment to its foreign policy principles and its strategic partnership with China.
The outcome of this diplomatic standoff will have broader implications for South Africa’s role in global politics, its relationships with both China and the West, and its ability to navigate the complexities of an increasingly multipolar world.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com