The 20th U.S.-Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum (AGOA Forum), wrapped up in Johannesburg as led by U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. She co-hosted with South Africa’s Minister of Trade Ebrahim Patel.
The annual forum brought together senior U.S. and African government officials, business leaders, labor and civil society groups to discuss trade ties and the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) which expires in 2025.
Throughout the forum, Ambassador Tai held bilateral meetings and emphasized the Biden administration’s commitment to a timely AGOA reauthorization.
She discussed worker-centered trade policies for resilient, inclusive growth.
The U.S. delegation highlighted efforts to increase AGOA utilization and drive economic opportunity for both Americans and Africans. President Biden expressed strong support for renewing AGOA in his remarks.
Other key U.S. officials attending included Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip and Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Constance Hamilton.
The delegation also included congressional staff and officials from various government agencies.
Thirty-two African trade ministers participated in the forum along with the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Area and regional groups.
The forum built on the success of the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit
