US Officials and Lawmakers Advocate for Extension of Duty-Free Africa Trade Program AGOA

U.S. Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) extension on the cards amid clarion calls from African countries at trade forum; aimed at promoting economic growth and diversity in investment as businesses seek alternatives to China.

U.S. officials and lawmakers are advocating for an extension of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which allows sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to U.S. markets, following calls from African countries at a recent trade forum.
The AGOA program, which is currently scheduled to expire in 2025, is seen as crucial for promoting economic growth and diversifying investment in Africa as businesses seek alternatives to China.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has asked the U.S. Congress for an extension that is longer than the previous 10-year extension granted in 2015.
Jo Biden has indicated his intention to exclude Niger, Gabon, the Central African Republic and Uganda from AGOA due to human rights violations and failure to establish political pluralism and the rule of law.
The push for AGOA's extension is also supported by U.S. businesses, who are seeking certainty in their moves to reduce dependence on China and consider investing in Africa.