Trump extends African Growth Opportunity Act by one year

Donald Trump, the United States (US) President has signed a one-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

The act, which has existed for 25 years until its expiry in September 2025, provided Nigerian and other African manufacturers in eligible countries with tariff-free access to the US market on over 1,800 products.

Trump has now extended it to December 31, 2026, disappointing hopes of a three-year extension approved by the House of Representatives.

Read also: 17 African countries remain in limbo as US extends AGOA to 2028

The legislation was amended by the Senate to a one year extension before it reached the president’s desk.

Jamieson Greer, US trade representative, said that the extension would be an opportunity to rework the act to ensure that US firms enjoy greater access to African markets.

“AGOA for the 21st century must demand more from our trading partners and yield more market access for US businesses, farmers, and ranchers to build upon the benefits it has historically provided to Africa and the United States,” said Greer.

Bethel Olujobi reports on trade and maritime business for BusinessDay with prior experience reporting on migration, labour, and tech. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the University of Jos, and is certified by the FT, Reuters and Google. Drawing from his experience working with other respected news providers, he presents a nuanced and informed perspective on the complexities of critical matters. He is based in Lagos, Nigeria and occasionally commutes to Abuja.

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