The Expropriation Act allows the South African government to seize land, in the name of public interest, with or without compensation. Its purpose is to repossess land and distribute it to address what the government refers to as historical injustices.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has defended South Africa's Expropriation Act, introduced in January, saying that it will "balance the need for public usage of land and the protection of the rights of property owners". Ramaphosa vehemently denied that the policy targets white landowners, as Trump had insinuated.

South Africa has a new law to govern the expropriation (or compulsory acquisition) of private property by government for public purposes or in the public interest. The passing of the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 followed a parliamentary process that began in 2020.

President Trump has threatened to cut all US aid to South Africa while claiming, deepening already sharp divisions between the United States and South Africa over the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.

South Africa rejects Trump’s accusations, hits back at land law aid threats South Africa has defended a new land reform law after US President Donald Trump threatened to cut funding in response. The Bill allows the government to take control of some property deemed in the public interest,