Agoa extension offers SA exporters a vital lifeline
Dr Mikatekiso Kubayi, senior researcher of the South African Research Chair on African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy at the University of Johannesburg, explains the process from the US Senate to the White House, diplomatic relations and what this positive development means for business.
The US Senate has voted to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) until December 2028, providing South African exporters with additional trade certainty. This follows a one-year extension that began in February 2026. Agoa grants eligible sub-Saharan African countries, including South Africa, preferential, largely duty-free access to the US market for specific products, aiming to foster trade, investment, and economic growth.
The extension will preserve key apparel provisions for businesses, ensuring greater access to the lucrative US market. South African exporters could benefit significantly, particularly in the clothing and textile sectors, as the country currently exports fresh produce, such as citrus fruits, berries, avocados, and nuts, to the US market.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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