the Trump administration’s misguided relations with South Africa and the African continent,
arguing against Pretoria’s expulsion from AGOA. Ashlee Rezin/Sun-Times
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson has expressed strong opposition to the Trump administration’s decision to terminate South Africa’s participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), effective January 1, 2027, warning that the action threatens decades of economic cooperation, undermines U.S. engagement with Africa, and places American strategic interests at risk.
“President Trump’s decision to remove South Africa from AGOA is a deeply troubling step backward in America’s relationship with the African continent. Rather than strengthening our economic partnerships and advancing shared prosperity, this administration is choosing a path that risks alienating one of Africa’s most important economic partners.
“AGOA was established to promote economic growth, expand trade, encourage investment, and create opportunities for both African and American businesses. It represents more than a trade preference program; it is an important instrument of American diplomacy and a tangible demonstration of our commitment to Africa’s economic development.
“South Africa is a major U.S. trading partner and an important regional economic power. Punishing the country through the withdrawal of trade benefits risks hurting workers, farmers, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. It also creates opportunities for other global powers, particularly China, to expand their economic influence across the continent at America’s expense.
“As a member of Congress committed to strengthening U.S.–Africa relations, I believe our foreign policy must be guided by diplomacy, mutual respect, economic cooperation, and a recognition of
Africa’s growing importance in global affairs. Disagreements between governments should be addressed through constructive engagement and dialogue, not through measures that jeopardize longstanding economic relationships.
“I am particularly concerned that this decision could undermine the confidence of African nations in the United States as a reliable and consistent economic partner. At a time when the United States should be deepening its engagement with Africa, strengthening commercial ties, and competing for investment and strategic partnerships, we should not be closing doors.
“I call on the Trump administration to reconsider this decision, engage directly and constructively with the South African government, and work toward a diplomatic resolution that preserves South Africa’s participation in AGOA.
“Congress must also exercise its oversight responsibilities to ensure that decisions affecting our trade relationships and strategic partnerships with African nations are transparent, consistent with the law, and aligned with America’s long-term interests.
“America’s relationship with Africa must be built on partnership, not punishment; mutual respect, not confrontation; and shared economic opportunity, not exclusion. We cannot afford to turn our backs on South Africa or undermine the broader U.S.–Africa partnership.”
SELF-HARMING: President Trump’s decision to remove South Africa from AGOA will have boomarang effects, argues Congressman Jonathan l. Jackson
