South Africa’s Minister of Trade, Parks Tau, has expressed confidence that the United States will renew its key trade programme with Africa—the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)—which is set to expire later today.
Following his recent visit to Washington, Tau’s office released a statement noting strong bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for AGOA’s renewal. “The consensus indicates that AGOA may be extended for a short term of one to three years, allowing lawmakers time to revise and enhance the programme,” the statement read.
Minister Tau emphasized that South Africa’s immediate priority is securing an extension, even if temporary, to maintain trade continuity and safeguard regional economic interests.
Tariff Negotiations Underway
In parallel, South Africa is lobbying the Trump administration to reconsider a 30% tariff imposed in August on its exports to the U.S. Tau met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer earlier this month to negotiate a reduction in the tariff, which has raised concerns among South African exporters.
The discussions form part of broader efforts to preserve and strengthen trade relations between South Africa and the United States under AGOA’s framework.