SMART, which represents US companies engaged in the global trade of secondhand clothing and reclaimed textile products, has written a letter to USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging the US administration to renew AGOA before 30 September 2025.
The association warned that without AGOA, US businesses risk losing critical protections that ensure fair and reciprocal trade with African markets.
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SMART believes US congress and the US administration must act quickly to renew AGOA before its expiration to ensure continued support for US businesses, workers, and sustainable trade practices.
SMART noted this is particularly important given secondhand clothing and reclaimed textiles are one of the US’ top two textile and apparel exports by volume.
SMART’s executive director Cameron Curtis explained: “AGOA has been a cornerstone in safeguarding the interests of our sector.
“When East African Community (EAC) nations sought to ban secondhand clothing imports several years ago, it was US leadership — backed by AGOA that ensured the ban was reversed and that fair trade obligations were upheld. The programme remains essential to deterring unfair trade practices and countering China’s growing influence across the continent.”
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By GlobalDataSMART pointed out that a lapse in AGOA would embolden trading partners to reintroduce barriers against US goods, jeopardising US jobs and undermining principles of free and fair trade.
ITAC-12 Advisor to SMART Eric Warshaw added: “Renewal of AGOA will send a clear signal that the United States is committed to accountability, fairness, and mutual benefit in global trade
“Our industry supports thousands of American workers and advances sustainability by extending the life of textiles. Reauthorisation directly strengthens US economic and environmental goals.”
