AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel has stated that ordinary South Africans, rather than political leaders, will bear the consequences of the United States' decision to terminate the country's participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act. Kriel said AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement had previously travelled to the US to lobby the administration against removing South Africa from the trade programme. However, he claimed their efforts were unsuccessful.
Kriel attributed blame for the loss of AGOA benefits to the African National Congress, stating that the party's actions led to the US decision. He argued that ordinary people, not politicians, would suffer the consequences, citing examples from other countries where similar situations occurred. Kriel also noted that workers in sectors such as motor vehicle manufacturing and agriculture would be among those affected.
AfriForum and the Solidarity Movement visited Washington, DC, in February 2025 to engage with the US administration and officials over South Africa's position under AGOA. The delegation, led by Kriel, raised concerns about property rights, farm murders, and government policies, including the Expropriation Act. AfriForum said its lobbying efforts were aimed at preventing a blanket withdrawal of South Africa's trade benefits.
US President Joe Biden has notified Congress of his intention to terminate South Africa's beneficiary status under AGOA from January 1, 2027. The decision represents a setback for Pretoria's efforts to retain preferential access to the US market amid growing tensions between the two countries. US Trade Representative Katherine Tai said the decision followed an annual review of sub-Saharan African countries' eligibility for AGOA.
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau said the US decision did not define the broader relationship between the two countries, but warned that finding a solution would depend on both parties' willingness to engage. The government would support affected sectors, protect South Africa's national interests, and continue pursuing trade, investment, and shared economic opportunities with the US.
Critics, including trade union federation COSATU, have blamed AfriForum and Solidarity for contributing to the US decision to move towards terminating South Africa's AGOA status. They have accused the organisations of damaging the country's international reputation and promoting negative narratives about South Africa to US officials.
The loss of AGOA trade benefits is estimated to put up to 10,000 South African jobs at risk, with the Western Cape citrus industry being significantly affected. The government is expected to provide support to affected sectors and explore ways to mitigate the impact of the US decision on the country's economy.
Key points
- AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel blames the ANC for the loss of AGOA trade benefits.
- The US decision to terminate South Africa's AGOA status is expected to affect workers in sectors such as motor vehicle manufacturing and agriculture.
- Up to 10,000 South African jobs are estimated to be at risk due to the loss of AGOA trade benefits.
