Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) has introduced the AGOA Extension and Bilateral Engagement Act, referred to as AGOA 2.0, with the goal of extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) while addressing U.S. strategic interests in Africa and countering China’s influence.
“China is using Africa to expand its influence at America’s expense. We need to rethink our relationships in the region while strengthening trade with African countries that share our values. This bill makes sure AGOA works for America’s interests—not against them,” said Kennedy.
The proposed legislation would renew AGOA for two years, focusing on ensuring that participating countries support U.S. priorities rather than those of nations such as China or Russia. The bill also includes provisions from Kennedy’s earlier U.S.-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act, aimed at holding South Africa accountable for aligning with U.S. adversaries.
Key components of the AGOA 2.0 Act include an extension of AGOA benefits for two more years, a requirement for a U.S. strategy to negotiate bilateral trade agreements with select AGOA countries, and clear eligibility standards based on democratic governance, rule of law, human rights practices, anti-corruption efforts, and open markets. Additionally, it incorporates measures to assess South Africa’s partnerships with Beijing and Moscow.
Congress initially enacted AGOA in 2000 to promote stronger trade ties between the United States and sub-Saharan African nations by providing duty-free access to thousands of products in exchange for progress toward market-based economies and democratic reforms. As of September 30, 2025—the date when existing trade benefits expired—32 countries qualified for participation under the program.
The full text of the new legislation is available online.
