Ghana Urges AGOA Renewal as U.S. Tariffs Threaten African Exports

Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has called for the urgent renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) during strategic talks in Washington, D.C. The meeting comes as Ghana faces mounting pressure from the United States’ new 10% tariffs on global exports, part of former President Donald Trump’s revived “America First” trade agenda. Ghana, a beneficiary of AGOA, seeks to protect its export-driven industries, particularly garments and textiles, which have seen a boost from U.S. investment under the deal.

The Ghanaian delegation, led by Ofosu-Adjare and including senior officials such as Ambassador Jane Gasu Ahemtor and Dr. Mary Awusi, engaged with U.S. counterparts, including Thomas Bruns of the U.S. Commerce Department and Giancarlo Cavallo of the President’s Advisory Council. Their discussions focused on preserving the economic cooperation fostered through AGOA and addressing trade policy uncertainties ahead of the agreement’s scheduled expiry in September 2025.

Ofosu-Adjare emphasized that AGOA represents a mutually beneficial platform that supports both U.S. business interests and African industrial growth. She urged for its extension, citing its role in attracting U.S. investors and creating jobs in Ghana’s manufacturing sector. The minister also addressed concerns around Ghana’s regulatory framework, including its local content policy, import restrictions on older vehicles, and debts owed to American companies—reassuring that these matters are being resolved.

Both parties acknowledged the need to resume formal trade dialogues under the existing Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA). This, they agreed, would help maintain momentum in U.S.-Ghana trade relations and provide a structured way to navigate ongoing policy challenges amid shifting global economic dynamics.

As diplomatic engagement continues, Ofosu-Adjare is scheduled for additional consultations with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in the coming weeks. Ghana’s lobbying for AGOA’s renewal signals a broader African concern over preserving favorable access to U.S. markets in an increasingly protectionist global trade climate.

Source: Citi newsroom