Sewell announces passage of AGOA extension in House

A three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has been approved by the House of Representatives, said an announcement from Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) on Monday. 

AGOA is a program that allows duty-free access to the U.S. market for products from eligible sub-Saharan African countries. Sewell has stated that the program benefits the seventh district as the Black Belt is among the markets. 

She added that it will aid in job creation and expand access to African markets for American businesses. 

“AGOA has been one of the most successful trade programs in our nation’s history, opening doors for African nations while creating new opportunities for American workers, farmers, and manufacturers,” said Sewell.

“Extending AGOA ensures that we continue building on this progress, fostering economic growth, and strengthening the bonds between the United States and our African partners. I am proud to support this legislation and thrilled to see it advance with such strong bipartisan backing.”

In her announcement Sewell urged that the senate pass the legislation. 

“Our global competitors are investing heavily in Africa,” she said. “The United States must continue to lead. Passing this extension is a critical step in reaffirming our commitment to shared prosperity and democratic partnership.”