US Extends AGOA Trade Benefits Through 2026, Reinstates Gabon

Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, amends provisions to extend duty-free treatment under the Trade Act for beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries through December 31, 2026. The act also extends the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) regional apparel article program and third-country fabric program through the same date.

Under the Trade Act and AGOA, the President has the authority to designate or terminate the designation of countries as beneficiary sub-Saharan African countries based on their eligibility and continual progress in meeting specified criteria.

Previously, in Proclamation 10692, the President determined that Gabon was not making continual progress toward eligibility and terminated its beneficiary status. However, following actions taken by the Government of Gabon, the President has now concluded that Gabon meets the necessary eligibility requirements and has redesignated Gabon as a beneficiary sub-Saharan African country under the Trade Act.