AGOA 2023 Forum Kicks Off In Johannesburg, South Africa | Village Square Africa | 02-11-23

On the 2nd of November 2023, the annual African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum commenced in Johannesburg, South Africa, where discussions are set to revolve around the United States' flagship trade programme for the African continent.

The United States is actively exploring ways to enhance its influence on the African continent through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a legislative initiative designed to promote economic engagement with African nations. The increasing presence of China and Russia in Africa has played a significant role in driving the U.S.'s efforts to forge stronger relations with African countries. However, as AGOA's expiration date in 2025 approaches, there is growing speculation about what will succeed it and how it will impact Africa's trade relationships with the United States.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act, established in 2000 under the leadership of former U.S. President Bill Clinton, is aimed at deepening trade connections with Sub-Saharan Africa and assisting African countries in economic development. AGOA grants eligible African countries duty-free access to the U.S. market for a wide range of agricultural and manufactured products.

AGOA has been renewed twice in the past and is scheduled to expire in September 2025. Several countries, including Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, and Ethiopia, have effectively utilised AGOA to increase exports to the U.S. and generate employment, particularly in the textile industry.

However, in a recent development, U.S. President Joe Biden has decided to terminate the eligibility of four African countries for AGOA, citing their failure to meet the act's eligibility criteria. These countries include the Central African Republic, Niger, Gabon, and Uganda.

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AGOA 2023 Forum Kicks Off In Johannesburg, South Africa | Village Square Africa | 02-11-23


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