Request for Comments on the Modernization of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA)

Brief takeaway: USTR is asking for public comments to help shape recommendations to Congress on modernizing and reauthorizing AGOA, the trade-preference program for eligible African countries.

What changed: According to the notice, USTR is inviting comments from interested parties to inform trade policy recommendations on AGOA modernization. The notice states that AGOA is authorized through December 31, 2026, and that USTR will provide Congress recommendations on reforms aimed at balancing bilateral trade flows and creating a path toward reciprocal trade agreements with more advanced beneficiary countries as they graduate from the program.

Who's affected: The notice names AGOA beneficiary countries (African nations) generally rather than specific countries. It does not cite specific product types or HTS chapters/codes, but AGOA broadly concerns goods imported under its preference provisions. This is a request for comments, not a change to duties or eligibility.

What to review:
- Review whether your imports currently claim AGOA preferential treatment and from which beneficiary countries.
- Confirm with your broker how the current AGOA authorization end date of December 31, 2026, may affect future entries.
- Check whether your business wishes to submit comments and note any submission deadlines and instructions in the full notice.
- Review your sourcing plans in light of possible reauthorization or program changes.

This is general information, not legal advice and not a compliance determination — confirm specifics with a licensed customs broker or trade counsel.