SA needs to take advantage of hosting AGOA, says economist

SA needs to take advantage of hosting AGOA, says economist

An economist says South Africa needs to make the most of hosting the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum if the country is serious about boosting exports.

SA needs to take advantage of hosting AGOA, says economist
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Countries which qualify to be part of the AGOA forum enjoy exporting a number of products to the United States without having to pay duties. 


For South Africa, this largely translates to exports of vehicles and agricultural produce among other things. 


However, Efficient Group economist Dawie Roodt says South Africa almost missed out on the chance to host the AGOA forum in November due to its relationship with Russia. 


He says missing out on such opportunities or even risking falling out of AGOA would have a negative impact on trade potential.


"If you want to be part of AGOA there are certain requirements, one is that you shouldn't support certain organisations and in this instance the perception is that South Africa supports Russia. 


“But also, you have to support other things like for example democracy and certain human rights. South Africa certainly qualifies as far is that is concerned, but it is mostly our perceived relationship with the Russians that is part of the reason why certain American politicians want South Africa excluded from AGOA."

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