Published Online:January 2025
Product Name:The IUP Journal of International Relations
Product Type:Article
Product Code:IJIR020125
DOI:10.71329/IUPJIR/2025.19.1.21-43
Author Name:Leshan Loonena Naisho
Availability:YES
Subject/Domain:Arts and Humanities
Download Format:PDF
Pages:21-43
The paper examines the impact of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) on US-African trade relations, economic development, and regional stability in subSaharan Africa between 2000 and 2023. Through a comprehensive analysis of trade data, economic indicators, and diplomatic records from five case study nations— South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Lesotho—the study reveals significant but uneven progress in AGOA utilization. The findings demonstrate an average impact achievement of 50.5% across key metrics, with projected growth potential reaching 75.0% by 2030. While AGOA has successfully increased US textile and apparel exports, fostered export diversification, and stimulated economic growth through job creation and foreign direct investment, technical capacity gaps affect 60% of participating countries and infrastructure adequacy remains at 50% of required capacity. The study highlights the need for strategic policy adjustments, including reviewing rules of origin and expanding product coverage, alongside complementary initiatives in infrastructure development and skills training. The study concludes that realizing AGOA’s full potential requires targeted interventions, sustained commitment to policy implementation, and enhanced cooperation between the US and African nations
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), enacted in 2000, represents a landmark shift in US-African trade relations, particularly in the textile and apparel sector. This preferential trade agreement provides duty-free access to the US market