Seretse has good news for textile sector

The June 14 and 15 forum in the US capital was seen as a test case for US and African relations, with discussions revolving around AGOA's extension as well as the renewal of a key provision in the agreement. Under AGOA, 40 African states receive duty and quota free access to the US market, which for Botswana comprises 6,400 product lines. Over the years, the textile sector has been the biggest user of AGOA, although jewellery and other products have also tapped into it.

The Seretse-led delegation, which included senior trade and industry, foreign affairs, transport and communications as well as infrastructure, science and technology officials, was due back home yesterday (Sunday). Ahead of the return, acting trade and industry permanent secretary, Matshediso Mulalu said Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, had assured African ministers that renewing both AGOA and its key provision, were a priority for the US Congress.