The African Growth and Opportunity Act
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a strategic trade program by the United States (US). Designed to fuel economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa, AGOA offers qualifying nations exclusive access to the lucrative US market without tariffs.
It's not just about trade; it's a powerful collaboration driving mutual prosperity and development.
FAST FACTS
Preferential market access
AGOA provides exclusive US market access, boosting economic growth through trade with eligible African countries
Tariff-free exports
Over 5 000 products qualify for duty-free access under AGOA
Trade benefits
98% of US imports from AGOA countries are tariff-free, giving sub-Saharan Africa a competitive edge
US support
AGOA extends beyond trade, offering eligible countries credit and technical skills from the US
WHAT IT IS
- AGOA, established in 2000 by the United States, aims to foster economic growth across sub-Saharan Africa through good governance and free markets.
- The programme grants duty-free access to the US market for 35 eligible countries. More than 5 000 products can be exported without a trade agreement.
- Eligible African nations can tap into the expertise of the US, gaining access to credit and technical skills that can empower their economic development.
- The programme makes setting up cross-border value chains easier, promising a significant boost in exports and US-African trade and investment.
- The main sectors that benefit from non-tariff trade under the AGOA programme include agriculture, apparel, automotive, energy, manufacturing, mining, and textiles.
- In 2023, the AGOA programme was renewed by the US Congress until 30 September 2025. Signifying a continued commitment to fostering economic growth and strengthening ties.
HOW WE ASSIST
With over 150 years of banking experience and a presence in 20 African countries and key global markets, including the US, we're your go-to partner for unlocking the trade and economic benefits of AGOA in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Africa’s largest bank
- Operating in 20 sub-Saharan African countries and major global markets, we drive growth and development across the continent.
Global reach
- With offices in the Channel Islands, China, Dubai, the United Kingdom and the United States, we offer services, insights, and experience to help you seize opportunities and mitigate risks.
Trade finance solutions
- Our Trade team provides seamless cross-border payment capabilities and industry-leading trade finance products. This will help enhance your working capital cycle and business expansion while mitigating risks.
Building manufacturing capacity
- Our Commercial Asset Finance gives you access to secure new or used capital equipment. We offer flexible repayment terms that suit the cash flow cycles of your business.
Value-adding initiatives
- Leverage our Trade Club portal, designed to assist our African Business and Commercial Banking clients. You’ll be able to connect with trusted, pre-vetted local and international trading partners, including US-based importers.
GET IN TOUCH
For more information on our Trade offering, kindly reach out to your Relationship Manager or Account Executive, or email: tradesalesfulfilment@standardbank.co.za
-
WHAT IT IS
-
HOW WE ASSIST
-
GET IN TOUCH
- AGOA, established in 2000 by the United States, aims to foster economic growth across sub-Saharan Africa through good governance and free markets.
- The programme grants duty-free access to the US market for 35 eligible countries. More than 5 000 products can be exported without a trade agreement.
- Eligible African nations can tap into the expertise of the US, gaining access to credit and technical skills that can empower their economic development.
- The programme makes setting up cross-border value chains easier, promising a significant boost in exports and US-African trade and investment.
- The main sectors that benefit from non-tariff trade under the AGOA programme include agriculture, apparel, automotive, energy, manufacturing, mining, and textiles.
- In 2023, the AGOA programme was renewed by the US Congress until 30 September 2025. Signifying a continued commitment to fostering economic growth and strengthening ties.
With over 150 years of banking experience and a presence in 20 African countries and key global markets, including the US, we're your go-to partner for unlocking the trade and economic benefits of AGOA in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Africa’s largest bank
- Operating in 20 sub-Saharan African countries and major global markets, we drive growth and development across the continent.
Global reach
- With offices in the Channel Islands, China, Dubai, the United Kingdom and the United States, we offer services, insights, and experience to help you seize opportunities and mitigate risks.
Trade finance solutions
- Our Trade team provides seamless cross-border payment capabilities and industry-leading trade finance products. This will help enhance your working capital cycle and business expansion while mitigating risks.
Building manufacturing capacity
- Our Commercial Asset Finance gives you access to secure new or used capital equipment. We offer flexible repayment terms that suit the cash flow cycles of your business.
Value-adding initiatives
- Leverage our Trade Club portal, designed to assist our African Business and Commercial Banking clients. You’ll be able to connect with trusted, pre-vetted local and international trading partners, including US-based importers.
For more information on our Trade offering, kindly reach out to your Relationship Manager or Account Executive, or email: tradesalesfulfilment@standardbank.co.za