Agoa extension offers hope for South African exporters
South African exporters have welcomed progress towards extending Agoa, which provides preferential access to the key US market.
A likely extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) has been welcomed by South Africa’s automotive and agricultural industries.
Agoa, in place since 2000, gives eligible sub-Saharan African countries preferential, duty-free access to the US market.
There were concerns it would not be extended after US President Donald Trump announced widespread trade tariffs, but the US Congress earlier this month voted to continue the agreement until December 31, 2028.
Formal legislative hurdles remain before the extension becomes legally binding.
“This is good news for workers and for the South African economy. Trade that flows freely means jobs are secure,” said Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) COO Martlé Keyter.
“Every vehicle and every component that leaves our shores supports a chain of employment that reaches right into our dealerships and workshops. Anything that strengthens South Africa’s place in global trade is something workers can welcome.”
The US is also a major market for South African agricultural produce, reportedly worth more than $500m in 2025.
Without Agoa, South African producers could struggle to export to the US at competitive prices.
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