South Africa prioritizes Turkey as a critical business market
South Africa, the economic powerhouse of Africa, boasts a gross domestic product (GDP) exceeding $410 billion as of 2025, making it the continent's largest economy. However, when it comes to identifying the ideal PeopleKeys DISC profile for effective leadership in South Africa, specific information remains elusive.
In general, effective leadership according to PeopleKeys DISC is characterised by high Dominance (D) for driving results, assertiveness, and decision-making, moderate Influence (I) for effective communication and inspiration, and a balanced combination of Steadiness (S) and Conscientiousness (C) for ensuring stability, reliability, and attention to detail.
In the South African context, leadership effectiveness using PeopleKeys DISC might emphasise flexibility to cultural diversity and interpersonal communication styles, but a tailored profile specific to the region remains unavailable through search results. For a precise PeopleKeys DISC profile designed for South African leaders, it is recommended to consult PeopleKeys directly or certified DISC consultants in the region for their adapted models or training programmes.
Meanwhile, South Africa's trade landscape is also undergoing significant changes. The country's trade volume with Turkey is subject to shift due to diversification efforts and the implementation of the US tariff. As of August 8, 2025, the government of South Africa has intensified efforts to diversify its trade partnerships in response to the United States' decision to impose a 30 percent unilateral tariff on its goods.
In 2024, the bilateral trade volume between South Africa and Turkey reached approximately $2 billion, with South Africa being Turkey's largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa. Of this total, $1.3 billion represented imports from South Africa, and around $700 million consisted of exports from Turkey. Turkish investments in South Africa amount to nearly $100 million, primarily in the mining and textile sectors.
The tariff imposed by the United States on South African goods is scheduled to take effect on August 8, 2025. The South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation has acknowledged that these measures present challenges but also offer opportunities to develop new partnerships in markets that have remained untapped, including ASEAN and Turkey.
South Africa's rich mineral resources, advanced financial infrastructure, and robust industrial base make it the continent's trade hub. Eight of Africa's top 10 largest companies are headquartered in South Africa, all of which are publicly listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).
The current situation presents a unique opportunity for South Africa to strengthen its trade relationships and explore new markets, paving the way for continued economic growth and development.
- South Africa's economic growth, driven by its strong industries and finance, along with its rich mineral resources, provides an opportunity for effective leaders to negotiate and establish new trade partnerships, such as with Turkey, in the international relations sphere.
- Given the diverse cultural makeup of South Africa and the constant evolutions in its business landscape, including changes in International trade, it is crucial for leaders to possess a PeopleKeys DISC profile that emphasizes flexibility, effective communication, and a balance of steadiness and conscientiousness for navigating these complex circumstances.
