Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The African Union (AU) Commission has welcomed the U.S. House of Representatives’ decisive approval of a three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), underscoring the legislation’s significance for economic cooperation between the United States and African countries.

In an official statement issued on 14 January 2026, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, praised the bipartisan support shown by U.S. lawmakers in extending AGOA — describing the move as a reflection of enduring bilateral commitment to expanding trade, investment, and shared prosperity.

“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,” Mr. Youssouf said in response to the House vote.

Extension Provides Stability for African Markets

First enacted in 2000, AGOA allows eligible sub-Saharan African countries to export thousands of products into the U.S. duty-free, fostering trade growth and economic diversification across the continent. The programme has supported the expansion of manufacturing, agriculture, and services sectors, while creating significant employment opportunities in several African economies.

The three-year extension approved by the House — now set to run through 31 December 2028 — comes after the previous mandate expired in September 2025, raising concerns among policymakers, exporters and investors about potential disruptions in U.S.–Africa trade flows.

African business leaders and governments have broadly welcomed the House decision, emphasising that the renewed AGOA framework will help restore market certainty and encourage ongoing investment in sectors such as textiles, agro-processing and light manufacturing.

AU Urges Swift Senate Action

While welcoming the House’s action, the African Union Commission has called on the U.S. Senate to act swiftly in approving the extension, stressing that prompt congressional support is essential to ensure continuity of preferential market access for African exporters.

“We encourage the Senate to consider the legislation favourably and without delay,” the AU statement said, highlighting the importance of legislative momentum in preserving AGOA’s economic benefits.

Analysts say timely approval will not only benefit African economies but also strengthen the wider strategic partnership between Africa and the United States at a time of increasing competitive pressures in global trade.

Continued Partnership Amid Global Trade Challenges

Extending AGOA also carries broader diplomatic significance. By reaffirming a key pillar of U.S.–Africa economic engagement, the move is seen as reinforcing ties at a crucial moment when African nations are seeking diversified trading relationships and enhanced integration into global markets.

As the bill now moves to the Senate, both African governments and business communities are watching closely, hoping that continued preferential access to the U.S. market will sustain economic growth, promote job creation and deepen trans-Atlantic commercial ties.

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