By Ayo Kehinde
The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has welcomed the overwhelming passage by the United States House of Representatives of a three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the Chairperson described the trade framework as a key pillar of economic relations between Africa and the United States.
Youssouf commended the bipartisan support demonstrated by the U.S. House, which voted 340 to 54 in favor of the extension.
He noted that the vote reflects Washington’s enduring commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and shared prosperity with African economies.
The extension, sponsored by Representative Jason Smith, would renew the act until December 31, 2028, following its expiration in September 2025.
“For over two decades, AGOA has served as a cornerstone of U.S.–Africa economic relations, supporting industrialization, job creation, regional value chains, and inclusive growth across the continent,” the AU Commission Chairperson said.
He added that the initiative has been instrumental in fostering mutually beneficial ties while reinforcing Africa’s role as a reliable partner in global commerce.
As the bill proceeds to the United States Senate, Youssouf appealed to lawmakers to give the extension favorable and timely consideration.
The proposed renewal includes a retroactive clause, allowing eligible African businesses that exported to the U.S. after the act lapsed last year to apply for a refund of tariffs paid.
The African Union Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the U.S. government and Congress to ensure AGOA continues to serve as a bridge for economic cooperation. Enacted in 2000, AGOA grants eligible sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to the U.S. market for over 1,800 products, ranging from textiles to agricultural commodities
