The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which was set to expire on 30 September, could be extended through a bill called the AGOA Extension Act. The bill proposes extending AGOA for three years until 31 December 2028 and for preferential treatment for imports from African countries participating in AGOA. The legislation aims to ensure that African businesses do not lose trade advantages during the current transition period and to safeguard key components of the scheme. According to a lobbyist representing Mauritius and several other African countries, ”Trade is being seriously disrupted and millions of dollars are being lost. … We’re all waiting nervously for the House Ways and Means Committee to introduce a serious renewal bill that can move on the next available vehicle before the end of the year. Intense lobbying is underway. Keep your fingers crossed.”
The powerful House Ways and Means Committee passed the Agoa Extension Act, it will now be considered by the full house.