US calls for more balanced trade relations with Africa

The U.S. State Department’s top official for Africa indicated Tuesday that any renewal of a major U.S.-Africa trade deal would likely require greater “reciprocity” from African nations.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA),which allows many African products duty-free access to the American market,expires in September 2025. Its future remains uncertain amid protectionist trade policies from President Donald Trump’s administration.

“If AGOA is renewed,I expect it will likely reflect modern world concerns,” said Troy Fitrell,a senior official in the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs,during an online briefing with African journalists. “It will probably require a much stronger form of reciprocity,” he added,suggesting future U.S.-Africa exchanges must establish “a reciprocal relationship that meets the needs of both sides.”

Fitrell emphasized that U.S. diplomats play a secondary role in discussions about extending the agreement,shifting responsibility to African diplomats to convince Congress. “When asked what I’ve done for AGOA renewal,I respond: ‘What have you done?'” he explained.

Several African countries have reportedly explored bilateral free trade agreements with the United States,proposals Washington has welcomed.

Fitrell spoke while promoting Trump’s Africa diplomatic strategy,which prioritizes private investment over development aid. Critics argue that foreign aid reductions could undermine certain private sector projects in Africa.

Trump’s administration has proposed cuts to funding for the Millennium Challenge Corporation,which supports projects including road infrastructure in Côte d’Ivoire and electricity access in Senegal.

AGOA,established in 2000 under Democratic President Bill Clinton,provides tariff exemptions to African countries meeting specific conditions such as political pluralism,human rights respect,and anti-corruption efforts. Currently,about 30 of Africa’s 54 countries benefit from the agreement,covering products from clothing to automobiles.

In 2023,African exports under AGOA reached $9.26 billion,including $4.25 billion in petroleum or energy products,according to the U.S. International Trade Commission.