South Africa braces for AGOA review amid US trade talks

South Africa is preparing for possible changes to its eligibility under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), while keeping trade negotiations with the United States ongoing, Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said Wednesday.

Washington conducts annual reviews of countries participating in the preferential trade program, with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition expecting the latest findings on November 2.

Speaking at the launch of the Global Africa Research Initiative at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, Lamola underscored the importance of maintaining economic ties with the United States, one of South Africa's biggest trading partners.  He noted that bilateral trade supports thousands of jobs in the country.

Adding that Pretoria remained committed to negotiations towards mutually beneficial trade arrangements while preparing for various possible outcomes.

"Dialogue is indispensable, regardless of how difficult the atmosphere may be. We are, however, preparing for any eventuality concerning AGOA," Lamola said.

The minister said South Africa's foreign policy must be closely aligned with its economic priorities, including strengthening existing trade relationships, accessing new markets and securing favorable conditions for its exports.

He also pointed to BRICS as an important platform for broadening South Africa's trade and investment partnerships, adding that international engagements must deliver tangible economic gains for the country's people.