The move, adopted in a 370-48 vote as part of the latest Continuing Resolution to fund the US government, ensures continued duty-free access to the US market for exporters in sub-Saharan Africa and Haiti.
The legislation will become law upon presidential signature.
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In place for 25 years, AGOA currently enables 32 eligible sub-Saharan African countries to export more than 1,800 products duty-free to the US, in addition to over 5,000 goods included in the Generalised System of Preferences.
Welcoming the extension, the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) stated that AGOA has bolstered US exports in textiles and agriculture, while deepening commercial ties between the United States and African nations.
Similarly, the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HOPE/HELP), active for more than 15 years, provides duty-free access to more than 5,000 Haitian apparel and textile products.
Established and expanded following the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the initiative was designed to help rebuild Haiti’s textile industry and reinforce business relationships between the two countries.
Both AGOA and Haiti HOPE/HELP were scheduled to expire at the end of 2026 but will now be extended through the end of 2028. The extension follows previous legislative steps, including earlier action on AGOA in 2026 and renewed efforts on the Haiti programme after the expiration of related provisions in 2025.
AAFA trade and customs policy vice president Beth Hughes said: “We are grateful for the bipartisan, bicameral support these vital programs have received and look forward to President Trump signing the two-year extension into law.
“Our industry remains firmly committed to these programs and encourages Congress to use this extension as an opportunity to modernise AGOA and Haiti HOPE/HELP and build toward a 15-year renewal. Long-term renewal continues to be the goal in order to encourage long-term investment, deepen trade partnerships, and strengthen industries at home and throughout the region.”
The US Chamber of Commerce has also applauded the extension of the programmes, calling it “a critical first step” towards providing the long-term certainty that American businesses operating in sub-Saharan Africa and Haiti need to make meaningful investment decisions.
US Chamber of Commerce chief international affairs officer Joshua Walker commented: “We urge Congress to use this window to modernise both programmes and advance their long-term reauthorisation. Durable renewal is crucial to incentivise greater cross-border investment and ensure the US remains the partner of choice in these dynamic regions.”
