U.S. House Committee Backs AGOA Extension for Africa

A U.S. House committee approved a bill renewing the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for three more years. AGOA, crucial for Africa's duty-free trade with the U.S., expired in September. South Africa aims to remain included despite strained U.S. relations and ongoing tariff disputes.

The U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means has voted in favor of extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for another three years, offering hope to thousands of African jobs that rely on this duty-free trade program.

The bill, approved by a decisive 37-3 vote, underlines AGOA as essential in the economic relationship between the U.S. and Sub-Saharan Africa. Concerns loom, however, over a potential exclusion of South Africa, previously suggested by U.S. trade officials.

South Africa, struggling with strained U.S. relations, is fighting to stay part of AGOA amidst accusations of unfair trade practices. The country's trade ministry stresses its commitment to securing its place as discussions advance.

(With inputs from agencies.)