The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a key program in US economic engagement with Africa. Enacted by Congress in 2000 and renewed in 2015, AGOA grants eligible Sub-Saharan African countries preferential, duty-free access to US markets. Currently, 35 countries are eligible for AGOA benefits, meaning they have met the requirements of the program by making progress towards a market economy, eliminating barriers to US trade and investment, and acting to protect human rights. Without further renewal from Congress, AGOA is set to expire in 2025. The 21st AGOA Forum was held in Washington, D.C. from July 24 to 26. The forum brought together representatives from the United States and AGOA-eligible countries with members of economic and labor organizations, the private sector, and civil society, to discuss how to strengthen mutually beneficial and sustainable economic ties between the United States and Africa.
Since its launch, the Wilson Center has followed AGOA’s progress by publishing numerous articles and hosting events that examine AGOA’s role in US-Africa relations and Africa’s economy. These sources are compiled on this page.
With the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) set to expire in 2025, the 2024 Renewal and Improvement Act would extend AGOA until 2041 with a series of updates. Check out our recent infographic detailing the changes, updates and revisions outlined in the 2024 Renewal Act.
