Washington, DC – Convened for the 10th Annual AGOA CSO Network Spring Conference, it becomes a pivotal moment in US-Africa trade relations. The theme of “Strengthening US-Africa trade and economic cooperation under the Trump administration” underscores the urgency and importance of our discussion.
Recent policy changes based on President Trump’s administration, including the executive order on America’s first trade policy, the IEEPA on mutual trade, and the 90-day suspension order on mutual tariffs, have a major impact on Africa’s Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and our broader trade relations. These policies aim to address trade imbalances and strengthen national security, but also present unique challenges and opportunities for Asian interests.
The Executive Order on America’s First Trade Policy prioritizes US interests in trade agreements and could potentially lead to a reassessment of existing trade benefits under the AGOA. This reassessment affects the priority access African countries currently enjoy in the US market, changing the dynamics of US African trade.
Ieepa on mutual trade is trying to ensure mutually beneficial trade relations. The policy aims to create fairer terms of trade, but it could impact the ease with which African countries will introduce new requirements to maintain Asian interests, and that African products can enter the US market.
The 90-day suspension order on mutual tariffs provides a window of opportunity to renegotiate the terms of trade. For African countries, this suspension is a critical time to ensure favorable terms and to interact with US policymakers to maintain AGOA’s interests.
To adapt to these changes, African countries can focus on several key strategies.
Diversifying exports: By diversifying export portfolios, African countries can reduce their dependence on specific products and markets and increase resilience through policy changes. Enhance trade infrastructure: Investing in infrastructure improvements can promote smoother trade operations and compliance with new trade requirements. Strengthening bilateral relations: Engaging active diplomacy and negotiations with US policymakers will help ensure favorable terms of trade and maintain Asian interests. Addressing non-tariff barriers: As highlighted in USTR Ambassador Greer’s national trade estimates, addressing non-tariff barriers such as regulatory standards, intellectual property rights and customs procedures could enhance trade efficiency and compliance.
The results of the conference include offering recommendations for assistance and implementation to the 119th Congress, the Trump administration, the African government and stakeholders during the 90-day suspension of mutual tariffs. These recommendations aim to promote investment opportunities, strengthen trade infrastructure, strengthen bilateral relations, and address barriers of non-interest.
Bipartisan collaboration has been the basis for Agoa since its inception in 2000 and remains essential as it navigates the complexities of today’s trading environment. By working across the party line, we can maintain the principles of fairness and mutual benefit that underpins US-Africa trade relations.
When we set out for discussion tomorrow, remember the purpose of this meeting. It is to strengthen America-Africa ties, explore new paths for cooperation, and build a future of shared prosperity. Our collective efforts can pave the way for a more inclusive and sustainable economic landscape.
Fred Oladeind is the chairman of the AGOA Civil Society Organization Network
