SA dangles chicken and pork concessions to the US for Agoa continuation
But says land reform and racial transformation are non-negotiable
South Africa has extended generous trade concessions to the United States in a bid to maintain its membership in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), according to the country's Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau. Agoa, a US program introduced in 2000, provides eligible African countries duty-free access to the US market for certain exports.
South Africa has benefited from Agoa, with 31% of its exports to the US receiving duty-free treatment, valued at $2.7 billion in 2021. The program is up for renewal, with the US Congress having the final say on its reauthorization. Tau confirmed that South Africa's offers revolve around market access for poultry and pork, two products that have become a pivotal point of negotiation between the two nations.
He emphasized that the talks encompass market access and animal health regulations, including which parts of the products can enter the US. While South Africa is open to practical engagements, Tau clarified that there are non-negotiables in the negotiations, including racial transformation imperatives and land reform, which are deeply rooted in the Constitution.
The Minister also acknowledged that Agoa has been beneficial for South Africa but stressed the need for diversification of trade relationships. South Africa is actively exploring trade agreements with various countries, including those in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the European Union, Asia, Canada, India, and the Middle East.
Tau affirmed that South Africa remains committed to the US, regardless of the outcome of the Agoa negotiations.
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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