US exclusion of South Africa from AGOA sparks controversy

The United States has informed South Africa that it will be excluded from AGOA, a programme allowing certain products to enter the US market duty-free, citing “concerning” practices. About 10% of South Africa’s exports to the United States in 2025 benefited from the programme. The Congress of South African Trade Unions estimates that 3,000 jobs could be affected, potentially rising to 10,000, and urges the authorities to work to keep the country in AGOA. The South African government has acknowledged the decision, which comes amid strained relations between Washington and Pretoria.