US House approves AGOA extension to 2028
Friday, January 16, 2026 | 130 Views |
Brightening hope: AGOA was the anchor trade arrangement for the local textile sector
The vote, this week, enjoyed bipartisan support with 340 members of the House voting in favour of the deal, whilst 50 voted against the bill. The future of AGOA has been in the balance in the years leading to this month’s vote, with fears of a change in American policy towards preferential trade.
AGOA is a trade preferential agreement between the United States and certain eligible countries in sub-Saharan Africa that allows over 1,800 products from these countries to enter the United States duty-free, including in the leading African export industries of textiles and oil. It was last renewed in 2015 for 10 years and expired at the end of September 2025.
“I believe that free but fair trade isan absolute imperative”– John E. JamesFor two countries bound by geography, history and deep economic ties, periods of diplomatic strain serve neither side well. President Duma Boko’s efforts to restore momentum to relations with Pretoria deserve recognition, particularly at a time when Southern Africa faces shared challenges ranging from sluggish economic growth and unemployment to energy security...