Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R.C.) has been reinstated to the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). The reinstatement proclamation was issued by U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday Evening.
D.R.C. was suspended from AGOA about 10 years ago on the grounds of human rights violations during ex-president Joseph Kabila’s era.
President Trump’s announcement is a recognition of Congo’s President, Tshisekedi’s efforts to fight corruption, reform and reinforce democratic institutions, and political pluralism.
What is the AGOA Trade Act?
AGOA, enacted on 18 May 2000, is a trade act that has acted as a tool for U.S. economic policy and commercial engagement with African countries. It provides duty-free access to the U.S. market for more than 1,800 products from eligible Sub-Saharan African countries.
The trade act completed its previous 15 year validity period in 2015. However, it was renewed for another ten years, making it extend to 2025.
Reason for Reinstatement
The reinstatement acknowledges D.R.C.’s progress in establishing the rule of law and a market-based economy. Moreover, D.R.C. has done away with barriers to U.S. investments and trade. Also, the country has enacted policies to protect human rights and reduce poverty.
U.S. Ambassador to D.R.C., Mike Hammer outlined that the return of D.R.C. to AGOA is a recognition of President Tshisekedi’s devotion to inspire the change the Congolese nationals desire and deserve. Hammer said that Tshisekedi promoted change by protecting human rights, promoting peace and security, combating corruption, and creating economic opportunity.
U.S. – D.R.C. Privileged Partnership for Peace and Prosperity.
In 2019, the United States put the partnership to strengthen democratic institutions, protect human rights, combat corruption, strengthen democratic institutions, face potential pandemics, enhance peace and security, and build a stronger bilateral relationship.
Most importantly, the partnership was to deliver results to the U.S. and Congolese people. With the recent reinstatement, the partnership has lived up to its task. Hammer said that the return of D.R.C. to AGOA was a manifestation of the partnership.
Importantly, D.R.C.’s eligibility in AGOA is a “landmark achievement” highlighting the partnership’s progress.
Benefits to D.R.C.
Like other African countries in AGOA, the Democratic Republic of Congo will now partake of the benefits of having a good bilateral relationship with the U.S. Increased trade and investment are just but some of the benefits D.R.C. will reap from the reinstatement.
In his statement, Ambassador Hammer reassured D.R.C. that the U.S. would assist it “take full advantage of the economic benefits under AGOA.
The reinstatement comes after President Tshisekedi ended a close to a two-year coalition with his predecessor Joseph Kabila. The head of state cried foul play from Kabila’s camp, which significantly occupies D.R.C.’s parliament.
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