Blinken: Biden Wants to Enhance the Trade Program Between America and Africa

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated on Friday that "the Biden administration intends to work with Congress to improve the main U.S. trade program with Africa, rather than simply renewing it without modifications." The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), first launched in 2000, grants duty-free access for exports from eligible African countries to the United States, the largest consumer market globally. The law is set to expire in September 2025, and discussions are underway regarding the shape of the program's third phase. African nations are seeking an early extension of the program for ten years without modifications to reassure businesses and investors.