The US Congress is advancing a bill to revive and extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), but South Africa’s continued inclusion remains uncertain. The trade pact, which expired in September, has strong bipartisan support, with the House Ways and Means Committee approving it 37-3. However, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer raised concerns about South Africa, citing tariffs and non-tariff barriers, and said the administration could consider excluding the country. This threat puts at risk the duty-free access that has significantly benefited South African automotive, agricultural, and wine exports. The debate highlights how trade policy is becoming entangled with broader diplomatic tensions, casting uncertainty over a key pillar of US-Africa economic relations. Nevertheless, South Africa continues to lobby for inclusion.
Daily Maverick
