The US House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards renewing the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by overwhelmingly passing the AGOA Extension Act (H.R. 6500) on January 12, 2026. The bipartisan vote of 340-54 demonstrates strong congressional support for ongoing US-Africa trade cooperation and economic engagement. The legislation extends AGOA for three years, through December 31, 2028, ensuring continued duty-free access for eligible Sub-Saharan African countries and providing stability for exporters, investors, and supply chain partners in both Africa and the United States.
The bill upholds AGOA’s established eligibility standards for governance, transparency, human rights, and the rule of law, supporting US strategic interests and strengthening commercial ties with African economies. The extension is expected to enable businesses and governments to plan for the long term, expand market access, and promote investment, ultimately supporting jobs and strengthening commercial partnerships.
The next steps for the bill involve review by the Senate Finance Committee, which may approve it as written or propose amendments. If approved, the bill will move to the full Senate for a vote. Once both chambers pass identical versions of the bill, it will be sent to the President for signature, after which the AGOA extension will become law.
The AGOA is a crucial component of US-Africa trade relations, and its extension is significant for both Africa and the United States. The AGOA Civil Society Organization (CSO) Network will continue to engage with Senate offices to encourage timely passage, coordinate messaging among members and stakeholders, and support public awareness and stakeholder mobilization in Africa and the United States.
The extension of AGOA is expected to have a positive impact on trade relations between the US and Africa, promoting economic growth and cooperation. As the bill moves forward, stakeholders will be closely watching the Senate’s review process, anticipating the potential benefits of the extension for businesses, investors, and economies on both continents. With its passage, the AGOA extension is poised to strengthen commercial ties and support mutual economic interests between the US and Africa.
