The chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has welcomed the overwhelming passage by the United States House of Representatives of a three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the chairperson commends the bipartisan support demonstrated by members of the U.S. House, reflecting the enduring commitment of the United States to strengthening trade, investment, and shared prosperity with African economies.
“For over two decades, AGOA has served as a cornerstone of U.S. Africa economic relations, supporting industrialisation, job creation, regional value chains, and inclusive growth across the continent,” said Youssouf.
He added that AGOA has been instrumental in fostering mutually beneficial economic ties and reinforcing Africa’s role as a reliable partner in global commerce.
As the bill proceeds to the US Senate, the chairperson is appealing to the Senate to give favourable and timely consideration to the extension, in a spirit that upholds partnership, and shared strategic interests, according to the statement.
The extension, enacted through H.R. 6500, will keep AGOA in place until December 31, 2028, providing stability for U.S. firms sourcing goods from sub-Saharan Africa.
The latest announcement would provide 32 African nations to retain eligibility to preferential access to American markets.
MG/as/APA