The United States has extended duty-free market access for Nigeria and other African countries.
The extension runs under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) until December 31, 2026.
Duty-Free Access Extended
Ambassador Jamieson Greer confirmed the news on February 3, 2026, highlighting new opportunities for exporters.
Eligible countries can now export over 1,800 products to the U.S. without paying tariffs.
AGOA promotes economic growth, political reform, and sustainable development across Africa.
On the same day, President Donald Trump signed legislation reauthorising AGOA, retroactive to September 30, 2025.
Reform And Responsibility
Ambassador Greer emphasised that the modern programme demands reforms while offering U.S. businesses broader market access.
Countries must improve democracy, human rights, anti-corruption measures, and market-based economic policies.
The U.S. Trade Representative will update tariffs to reflect the reauthorisation changes.
AGOA, launched in 2000, strengthens trade between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa.
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It allows duty-free access for 1,800 products, and over 5,000 more under the Generalised System of Preferences.
To qualify, countries must uphold the rule of law, protect human rights, reduce poverty, and remove trade barriers.
AGOA has helped African nations expand exports, reform economies, and strengthen political institutions.
Thirty-two African countries remain eligible, including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, and Senegal.
Nigeria’s Growing Role
Nigeria drives U.S.-Africa trade, creating a $1.45 billion surplus between January and October 2025.
U.S. exporters sent $5.94 billion worth of goods to Nigeria, while imports fell to $4.49 billion.
In October 2025 alone, the U.S. posted a $162 million surplus, compared with $116 million in September.
Export growth jumped 80% year-on-year, highlighting Nigeria’s economic significance.
Nigeria accounted for 17% of U.S. exports to Africa and nearly 31% of the continent’s trade surplus.
AGOA continues transforming Africa, linking trade benefits with governance, reforms, and economic development.
The extension promises more opportunities for African businesses while strengthening U.S.-Africa trade ties.
