Thousands of jobs in Lesotho’s textile industry may be at risk following the new 50% tariff imposed by the United States under the leadership of President Donald Trump. The small southern African country, known for supplying denim products to global brands like Levi’s and Wrangler, now faces uncertainty in one of its most important sectors.
Lesotho’s textile industry supports about 12,000 workers and sends roughly 75% of its exports to the United States. But the heavy tariff hike announced by President Trump could make the country’s goods too expensive for American buyers, threatening businesses and livelihoods.
The U.S. government claims Lesotho imposes a 99% tariff on American imports—a figure Lesotho’s officials strongly dispute. No specific tariff figures were shared by Lesotho’s government, leaving room for confusion over the basis of America’s new policy.
Small businesses are already worried. Ms. Palesa Makae, a local entrepreneur, expressed concern over possible job losses. “If that happens, some of the women and men who work in those factories will be out of work,” she said.
The U.S. and Lesotho recorded a bilateral trade value of $240.1 million in 2024, according to data from the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Apart from textiles, Lesotho also exports diamonds and other items.
The World Bank classifies Lesotho as a lower-middle-income country, where nearly half of the 2.3 million population lives in poverty and unemployment stands at about 25%.
Responding to the crisis, Lesotho’s Trade Minister, Mr. Mokhethi Shelile, said the country will seek alternative markets across Africa using the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “We are not going to die. We will diversify and explore other markets,” he assured.
