Pretoria promises support for sectors hit by AGOA withdrawal
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on SAnews
The South African government has promised to support sectors affected by the withdrawal of AGOA benefits, due to take effect on 1 January 2027. Trade Minister Parks Tau has called for dialogue with Washington to be maintained and for trade, investment and mineral processing to continue, according to BuaNews.
The South African government has promised to support sectors, workers and businesses affected by the announced end of benefits under AGOA, the US trade preference programme for African countries. The measure is due to take effect on 1 January 2027, following 60 days’ notice, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau said.
Parks Tau said Pretoria would continue dialogue with Washington and seek a solution to trade difficulties. He said the US decision did not define relations between the two countries on its own, while stressing that resolving the matter would depend on the willingness of both governments.
The South African government is working with the sectors concerned to assess the impact on workers, exporters, businesses and communities linked to AGOA value chains. Parks Tau also reaffirmed the goal of a balanced trade and investment relationship, including the local processing of critical minerals.
The announcement follows Parks Tau’s call to preserve dialogue between Washington and Pretoria, after the US confirmed South Africa’s exit from AGOA in 2027.
