Trump Signs Two-Year AGOA Extension Through 2028

United States (US) President Donald Trump has signed a two-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) into law, keeping the trade programme in place through December 2028.

The extension passed Congress without major policy changes, providing eligible sub-Saharan African countries with continued duty-free access to the US market.

The move comes after months of uncertainty over AGOA’s future, with concerns that the Trump administration could scrap the programme or exclude some countries.

Five EU Nations Plan Migrant Return Hub

South Africa’s participation had faced particular uncertainty after Trump returned to the White House.

A group of US lawmakers had urged Trump to remove South Africa from the programme, while US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said in December that he was “open” to “different treatment” for South Africa. Greer had described South Africa as a “unique problem”, raising concerns that Pretoria could lose its preferential trade access.

African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Credit: IOL.

However, the Senate and House of Representatives have now backed the extension through the end of 2028.

Republican Congressman Jason Smith welcomed Trump’s decision, calling AGOA a key part of U.S. economic relations with Africa.

“For over two decades, the African Growth and Opportunity Act has been the foundation of America’s trade relationship with the nations of sub-Saharan Africa,” Smith said.

He added that AGOA promotes “greater economic stability and opportunity across Africa” while supporting US strategic and national security interests, including access to critical minerals and more secure supply chains.

Ghana Orders Gold Exporters To Refine Gold Locally

AGOA was established in 2000 to give eligible African countries duty-free access to the US market, with the goal of promoting economic growth and stronger trade ties.

The Trump administration had signalled plans to review and potentially change the programme but faced competing trade disputes with China and Canada.

The extension now effectively protects AGOA and participating countries for most of Trump’s current term. However, the administration is still expected to explore changes to the US trade relationship with Africa.

Author

Deborah Akwa

Deborah Akwa is a content writer with over four years of experience creating brand stories, editorial content, and audience-focused articles on topics like health, lifestyle, and entertainment.

When she isn't writing, she is behind the scenes managing editorial operations and helping the content team work better.

She loves using words to connect brands with their audiences. Outside of work, she enjoys watching movies and engaging in thought-provoking conversations.