JOHANNESBURG - South Africa is pushing for the G20 Summit to end with a formal declaration.
But the US boycott raises concerns about whether a consensus can be reached.
With 16 heads of state confirmed to attend, leaders may instead opt for a simpler chairperson’s statement.
"Look, it's actually important that the USA was there, and the chair was full so that the handover can take place," said Mohammed Cassimjee, geopolitical consultant.
"It is unprecedented that in G20 meetings not to have a country that is going to take over."
Former minister Roelf Meyer and director of the In Transformation Initiative said the summit must go ahead with a declaration.
"I think the summit will be a success and the work of the G20 has to go forward," he said.