Trump to remove Rwanda and South Africa from US trade deal

President Donald Trump has informed Congress of his plan to remove South Africa and Rwanda from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) trade program, effective from January 1, 2027. Agoa enables African nations to export numerous goods to the US without tariffs. US Trade Representative Jamie L. Raskin disclosed in a statement that an annual review revealed both countries breached the program's eligibility requirements.

He also notified the nations of the decision. The administration highlighted barriers to US trade and investment, along with concerns over national security and regional interests. In Rwanda's case, they raised worries about human rights, political pluralism, rule of law, and workers' rights. The move follows sanctions imposed by the US Treasury on Rwanda's defense ministry for alleged involvement in an armed rebellion in eastern DR Congo.

Additionally, the US cited corruption in South Africa as a reason for the termination. The administration aims to ensure African partners comply with the eligibility criteria. The announcement arrives amidst strained relations with both countries, potentially impacting their access to preferential trade arrangements with the US.

Last year, Trump accused South Africa of "white genocide" during a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa and initiated a refugee pathway for Afrikaners. South Africa's Ambassador to the US, Leo Brent Bozell III, expressed regret over the termination, attributing it to South Africa's rejection of US concerns.