U.S. Urges African Leaders to Spearhead AGOA Renewal Talks Amid Looming Deadline

Washington, USA — The United States has called on African heads of state to take a proactive and unified stance in negotiations to renew the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a pivotal trade agreement set to expire in September 2025. The appeal was issued on Friday, May 23, by the U.S. State Department, amid growing concern that a lack of urgency could jeopardize economic gains across sub-Saharan Africa.

Enacted in 2000, AGOA has served as the backbone of U.S.-Africa trade relations, granting eligible African nations duty-free access to the American market for thousands of products — a policy credited with creating tens of thousands of jobs and stimulating export-driven growth.

Speaking during a press briefing, Troy Fitrell, a senior official with the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, emphasized the urgency of the matter. “Some African countries have shown commendable initiative in advocating for AGOA’s renewal,” he said. “But others appear to be taking a back seat. The time to act is now.”

Fitrell warned that failure to extend AGOA beyond 2025 could have far-reaching economic consequences, especially for sectors heavily reliant on U.S. markets, including textiles, agriculture, and manufacturing. “Without a timely renewal, jobs will be lost, supply chains will be disrupted, and the foundation of U.S.-Africa trade could be severely weakened,” he cautioned.

Kenya, one of AGOA’s most active beneficiaries, has been vocal in urging U.S. lawmakers to expedite the renewal process. Business groups in Nairobi have repeatedly stressed that continued access to the U.S. market is vital for exporters, particularly in the apparel and horticulture industries.

Fitrell encouraged African leaders to directly engage with the U.S. Congress to ensure a smooth extension of the agreement and secure enhanced terms that reflect the continent’s evolving economic priorities.

“AGOA has supported African economies for over two decades. Its renewal is not just about trade — it’s about sustaining partnerships, creating opportunities, and strengthening mutual prosperity,” he added.

With just over a year remaining before AGOA’s expiration, trade advocates on both sides of the Atlantic are urging swift and decisive action to safeguard what has been one of the most significant frameworks for U.S.-Africa economic cooperation.