The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has welcomed the passage of a three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by the United States House of Representatives, describing it as a strong signal of continued commitment to U.S.–Africa economic cooperation.
Youssouf praised the bipartisan backing of the bill, saying it reflects enduring support within the U.S. Congress for deepening trade and investment ties with African countries.
“The Chairperson commends the bipartisan support demonstrated by Members of the U.S. House, reflecting the enduring commitment of the United States to strengthening trade, investment, and shared prosperity with African economies,” the African Union Commission said in the statement.
AGOA, enacted more than two decades ago, grants eligible sub-Saharan African countries preferential access to the U.S. market.
According to the AU Commission, the trade framework has played a critical role in supporting industrialisation, job creation and the development of regional value chains across the continent.
“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,” Youssouf said.
He added that the trade arrangement has helped foster mutually beneficial economic ties while strengthening Africa’s position as a reliable partner in global commerce.
The AU said the proposed extension would provide predictability and confidence to African exporters and investors at a time when many economies are seeking to expand manufacturing capacity and diversify exports.
As the bill now moves to the United States Senate, the AU Commission chairperson appealed for swift and favourable consideration, stressing the importance of continuity in U.S.–Africa trade relations.
“As the bill proceeds to the United States Senate, the Chairperson appealed to the Senate to give favourable and timely consideration to the extension, in a spirit that upholds partnership, and shared strategic interests,” the statement said.
The African Union Commission said the extension of AGOA would reinforce long-standing cooperation between Africa and the United States, particularly in advancing shared goals of economic growth, employment creation and sustainable development.
The AU reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with the U.S. administration, Congress and other stakeholders to ensure that AGOA continues to deliver tangible benefits for African economies.
“The African Union Commission reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the Government of the United States, Congress, and all stakeholders to ensure that AGOA continues to serve as a bridge for economic cooperation and a symbol of the enduring friendship between Africa and the American people,” the statement said.
AGOA has been a central pillar of U.S.–Africa trade since its enactment, offering duty-free access to thousands of products.
The AU Commission said extending the framework would help sustain momentum in trade and investment flows, while complementing Africa’s own integration agenda under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
