US Congressional delegation visits Benin to assess implementation of AGOA
US Ambassador Brian Shukan hosted a bipartisan delegation from the United States Congress from March 28-29. The House Ways and Means Committee, led by Chairman Jason Smith focused on economic opportunities for Benin under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
The delegation held discussions with the President and government officials, addressing specific recommendations for AGOA and to inform the reauthorization process.
AGOA has been at the core of U.S. economic policy and commercial engagement with Africa since its initial authorization in 2000.
The delegation’s visit underscores U.S. commitment to supporting Benin’s growth and importance of sustained progress in upholding the rule of law and democratic principles and promoting good governance.
Ambassador Shukan stated, “We welcome the visit of Chairman Smith and his bipartisan delegation, demonstrating the commitment of the U.S. Congress to reauthorize AGOA, which remains a priority for the Administration and a key pillar of the shared prosperity and economic engagement between Benin and the United States. AGOA can be a transformational tool for prosperity and upholding our shared rights and values.”
AGOA offers reduced tariffs on more than 6,700 products produced in Africa to be exported to the U.S. market.
To meet the rigorous eligibility requirements for AGOA, countries must establish or make continual progress establishing a market-based economy, the rule of law, political pluralism, and rights to due process. Additionally, countries must eliminate barriers to U.S. trade and investment and enact policies to reduce poverty, combat corruption, and protect human rights. Benin has remained eligible for AGOA since the program’s creation.
For further information, please call the U.S. Embassy at +229 21 30 06 50.
AGOA Benin Profile:
https://agoa.info/profiles/benin.html
AGOA Eligibility Criteria:
https://agoa.info/about-agoa/country-eligibility.html
USTR/2022 AGOA Implementation Report:
https://ustr.gov/sites/default/files/files/reports/2022/2022AGOAImplementationReport.pdf