Ramaphosa signals fuel relief and warns of AGOA losses as elections loom

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Monday that the country must prepare for its potential exclusion from the United States’ duty-free trade initiative, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), as relations between Washington and Pretoria have soured.

I need, as President, to prepare us if it ever happens.

He said the impact on jobs would be devastating. While the U.S. Congress has extended South Africa’s participation in AGOA until 2028, the final decision rests with the executive branch. The potential exclusion comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions and criticism of Pretoria, including allegations of discrimination that South Africa has rejected.

In addition to trade concerns, the President signaled that the government is looking into further fuel price relief, though he cautioned that such measures could necessitate cuts to other government programmes as the country approaches upcoming elections.