Overview

• The Trump administration has implemented a 90-day pause on steep tariffs initially imposed on African nations, though a 10% baseline tariff remains in effect.
• Lesotho's textile industry, facing a potential 50% tariff, has gained temporary relief but remains threatened by competitive disadvantages and potential factory closures.
• Madagascar's vanilla exporters are rushing shipments to the US during the suspension, with concerns over future tariff impositions on their key export.
• South Africa's citrus industry, previously tariff-free under AGOA, now faces a 10% tariff, raising fears of job losses and reduced trade advantages.
• The future of AGOA, set for review in September, remains uncertain, with baseline tariffs already undermining its benefits for Southern African economies.