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For several months, African exporters and their partners in the United States navigated a period of considerable uncertainty as a longstanding trade program awaited congressional action. While goods continued to move and commercial relationships remained intact, many businesses were unsure whether established duty-free preferences would still apply upon arrival in the U.S.
13 March 26
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This ambiguity placed disproportionate pressure on smaller enterprises, workers, and suppliers that have limited capacity to absorb unexpected cost shifts.
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Extension, signed in early February, therefore brought much-needed clarity. It restored a legal basis for duty-free access, helped stabilise ongoing supply chains, and provided a temporary, yet meaningful, window for planning.
At the same time, the Extension reflects broader changes in international trade politics, including evolving U.S. priorities, the deepening of Africa’s commercial ties with various global partners, and the continent’s ongoing efforts to strengthen integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In this legal alert, we explore the implications of AGOA’s extension and key considerations for African countries and exporters navigating the evolving trade landscape.
Click here to download and read the full alert.
Should you have any questions regarding the information in this legal alert, please do not hesitate to contact Daniel Ngumy and Luisa Cetina.
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Contributors
- Faith Chelangat – Associate
- Collins Owino – Trainee Lawyer