According to a report by Visual Capitalist, the shift shows how perceptions of Washington are changing rapidly across both traditional allies and emerging markets. Analysts say the trend points to weakening confidence in long-standing partnerships and a more fragmented global order.
Relations between South Africa and the United States have deteriorated sharply since Donald Trump returned to the White House in 2025. The U.S. administration has accused South Africa of land seizures targeting white farmers, claims widely dismissed by analysts and government officials.
Tensions have also been fuelled by trade measures, with Washington imposing some of the highest tariffs in sub-Saharan Africa on South African exports. The U.S. has further boycotted meetings linked to the Group of 20 hosted by Pretoria, while differences over foreign policy and South Africa’s domestic economic transformation agenda have deepened the divide.
Canada leads steepest decline
Globally, the erosion of trust in the U.S. is not limited to South Africa. Among traditional allies, Canada has recorded the steepest decline at -52%, followed by Italy (-21%) and France (-17%). South Africa also posted a significant drop of -21%, placing it among countries experiencing notable shifts in perception.
Other major economies are showing similar trends. Germany and Japan have recorded declines of -15% and -16% respectively, while the United Kingdom is down -13%, pointing to weakening confidence across established alliances.
The trend extends beyond Western allies. Brazil has recorded declines of more than -20%, while India and China show smaller but still notable drops of -10% and -9%.
Policy uncertainty remains a key driver, as shifting trade positions, tariff threats, and unpredictable rhetoric continue to strain global relationships.
