AGOA Benefits Guide for African Exporters
Unlock duty-free access to the world's largest consumer market. The African Growth and Opportunity Act eliminates tariffs on 6,500+ products from 35+ eligible Sub-Saharan African countries.
What is AGOA?
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a US trade law enacted in 2000 that provides duty-free access to the US market for qualifying Sub-Saharan African countries. It covers 6,500+ product tariff lines beyond the standard GSP program.
Key Benefits
- Duty-free access for 6,500+ product categories to a $26.5T economy
- Special Apparel Provision: use fabric from ANY source (unique to AGOA)
- No quantitative restrictions on most products
- US technical assistance and capacity building programs
- Catalyzes FDI - manufacturers locate in AGOA countries for US market access
- Combined with AGOA: GSP provides additional 3,500+ duty-free products
Rules of Origin - How to Qualify
35% Value-Added Rule
At least 35% of the product's appraised value must originate in the AGOA-eligible country. Can combine value from multiple AGOA countries.
Substantial Transformation
Product must be substantially transformed into a new article of commerce in the AGOA country. Simple assembly may not qualify.
Special Apparel Rule
Apparel can use fabric from ANY source worldwide. Only cutting, sewing, and assembly must occur in AGOA country. Most generous RoO in any US trade program.