The South African rand weakened in early trade on Friday, as investors awaited details of President Cyril Ramaphosa's telephone call with his U.S. counterpart President Donald Trump on bilateral trade.

Slapped with a steep tariff, South African officials hope for a deal, but some worry the U.S. may insist that it roll back measures that redress the damage of apartheid.

The South African government announced steps to support businesses that will be impacted by the 30% US tariff taking effect this Friday. Measures include setting up an “ export support desk ” to help firms diversify their markets and offering “fund support” to affected companies, the details of which are still being finalized.