The South African rand was softer in early trade on Monday ahead of a briefing by the country's ministers of trade and foreign affairs where they will provide updates on progress made in negotiating a trade pact with the United States.

The South African rand strengthened against the dollar on Friday, erasing earlier losses after a key report showed the US labor market cooled sharply over the past three months.

South African products exported to the US will be hit by a 30% tariff from 7 August, President Donald Trump has announced. South Africa faces the highest rate in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting Trump's strained relationship with the government of President Cyril Ramaphosa.