The AGOA bill was approved on 12 January by a bipartisan vote of 340–54 and now moves to the US Senate for consideration. The extension is seen as providing short-term trade certainty for US exporters, including those involved in secondhand clothing and textile reuse.
“This is an important and positive step for US textile reuse exporters, and the millions of workers and consumers supported by global reuse markets,” said SMART’s vice president of government and external affairs, Jessica Franken.
“AGOA plays a critical role in preserving duty-free access for US exports, including secondhand clothing, while reinforcing fair and transparent trade rules with our partners.”
AGOA has long supported US exporters of secondhand clothing and recycled textiles by maintaining duty-free access to eligible African markets.
SMART said the framework plays a critical role in supporting jobs, strengthening supply chains and enabling continued participation in global reuse markets.
The legislation now moves to the US Senate for consideration. SMART urges the Senate to act promptly to advance the extension and provide continuity for US exporters and trading partners.
“SMART looks forward to working with policymakers to ensure timely Senate consideration and to advocate for longer-term trade certainty for the textile reuse industry,” added Franken.
