The US Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced on November 2, 2026, that the Trump administration has notified Congress of its intention to withdraw Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA, a trade deal that allows African countries to export goods to the US duty-free. The withdrawal is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
According to the USTR, the decision was made after an annual review of African countries' eligibility for AGOA, which requires countries to meet certain criteria, including the protection of workers' rights and the promotion of trade and investment. The US claims that Rwanda and South Africa have failed to meet these requirements, citing concerns over trade and investment restrictions, as well as issues related to good governance and human rights.
US Ambassador to Rwanda Jamieson Greer stated that the Trump administration is concerned about Rwanda's restrictions on trade and investment, as well as issues related to human rights and good governance. The US is also concerned about South Africa's restrictions on trade and investment, as well as allegations of corruption and state capture.
The withdrawal of Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA could have significant economic implications for both countries, which rely heavily on exports to the US under the deal. Rwanda's government has yet to comment on the US announcement, but the country's economy could suffer as a result of the withdrawal.
The US move comes as tensions between the US and Rwanda have been rising in recent months. The US has imposed sanctions on several Rwandan government officials and entities, citing concerns over human rights and corruption. The withdrawal from AGOA is seen as another escalation of US pressure on Rwanda.
The Trump administration has been reviewing AGOA and has been seeking to strengthen the deal's requirements for participating countries. The US has been pushing for greater market access and reforms to improve the business climate in African countries. The withdrawal of Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA may be seen as a warning to other African countries to comply with AGOA's requirements.
The US decision to withdraw Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA has sparked concerns among African countries and trade experts, who warn that the move could undermine the US's influence in Africa and create opportunities for other trading partners, such as China and Europe, to fill the gap.
Key points
- The US has announced plans to withdraw Rwanda from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade deal, citing concerns over trade and investment restrictions.
- The withdrawal is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, and could have significant economic implications for Rwanda and South Africa.
- The US move comes as tensions between the US and Rwanda have been rising in recent months, with the US imposing sanctions on several Rwandan government officials and entities.
