As the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) approaches its 2025 expiration, African nations are actively preparing for negotiations with the United States, particularly in light of a potential second term for former President Donald Trump. AGOA, which grants sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to U.S. markets for thousands of products, has been a cornerstone of U.S.-Africa trade since 2000.
According to the Brookings Institution, AGOA has supported over 300,000 jobs in Africa and boosted non-oil exports, but its benefits have been unevenly distributed. Under Trump's first term, the U.S. government reviewed AGOA eligibility more strictly, suspending or threatening to suspend countries like Ethiopia, Mali, and Guinea over governance issues.
African Union trade officials have begun early consultations with U.S. lawmakers and business groups to advocate for a seamless renewal. Key African demands include extending AGOA for at least 10 years, simplifying rules of origin, and expanding product coverage to include more value-added goods like textiles and processed foods.
However, a Trump return could introduce new conditions, such as stronger reciprocity requirements or linking trade benefits to immigration controls. The Wilson Center notes that Trump's 'America First' policy previously led to reduced engagement with multilateral trade frameworks, raising concerns about AGOA's future scope.
Despite uncertainties, African negotiators emphasize the program's mutual benefits: AGOA has also supported U.S. exports to Africa, which totaled $18 billion in 2022. The outcome of the 2024 U.S. presidential election will significantly shape the terms of AGOA's renewal, with African nations bracing for both continuity and change.
