Tinashe Sambiri- South Africa has confirmed that it will not participate in the 2026 G20 meetings after being formally excluded by the United States, which will assume the presidency of the bloc next year. Pretoria described its decision as taking a "commercial break" during the U.S.-led session.

The exclusion follows a strongly worded statement by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio on Wednesday, who reaffirmed that South Africa would not be invited to the U.S.-hosted G20. Rubio criticised South Africa's economic and policy frameworks, arguing that "land, regulatory, and equity policies have weakened the economy and discouraged investment." He further accused the country of promoting what he called "radical agendas," including climate activism, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and continued reliance on foreign aid.

Rubio also claimed that the ruling party had scapegoated citizens and international partners, tolerated violence against white farmers, and aligned itself with governments deemed hostile by Washington. He alleged that South Africa's conduct during its recent G20 presidency "disregarded U.S. perspectives, obstructed negotiations, and doxxed American officials."

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya confirmed South Africa's stance, stating, "We will refrain from participating in the 2026 G20 under U.S. leadership, but we intend to re-engage once the presidency changes hands in 2027." Magwenya described the hiatus as a strategic pause rather than a permanent withdrawal, adding that "our absence does not diminish South Africa's commitment to multilateral engagement and advancing the interests of the Global South."

Analysts warn that Pretoria's absence from the 2026 G20 could reduce its influence in shaping discussions on critical issues such as climate finance, debt restructuring, and inclusive development. One expert noted, "At a time of growing geopolitical uncertainty, South Africa risks weakening collective advocacy among developing nations by stepping aside from this forum."

The decision comes amid rising tensions between Washington and Pretoria over economic policy and diplomatic alignments, highlighting the fragile balance of power and influence within global economic governance.