# South Africa Prepares for Possible AGOA Loss

> South Africa plans for US trade loss under AGOA as president warns of job devastation.
- Title: South Africa Prepares for Possible AGOA Loss · The Rio Times
- Summary: South Africa plans for US trade loss under AGOA as president warns of job devastation. South Africa's president warns of job devastation if US removes AGOA…
- Keywords: south africa, cyril ramaphosa, agoa, us trade, job loss, agreement, trade policy, president, news, world, politics, South
- Source: The Rio Times — https://riotimesonline.com/south-africa-ramaphosa-agoa-loss-prepare-2026
- Author: Amina Diarra
- Published: 2026-10-19T20:28:56+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: south africa, cyril ramaphosa, agoa, us trade, job loss, agreement, trade policy, president, news, world, politics
## AGOA Loss Planning
President Cyril Ramaphosa said South Africa must prepare for possible loss of US trade access under AGOA.

> I need, as president, to prepare us if it ever happens
## AGOA's Economic Impact
South Africa supplied half of US$8.23 billion in AGOA exports in 2024, supporting 22% of exports.
## Trump's Extension
Trump signed a two-year extension moving AGOA's end date to December 2028 but eligibility reviews happen yearly.
## Job Market Risk
Half a million South African jobs depend on AGOA, with specialized roles at risk if excluded.
## Export Decline
South African vehicle exports to US fell from R17.7 billion to R8 billion in 2024 to 2025.
## China as Alternative
Ramaphosa pointed to China's zero-tariff scheme for African exports as potential new market.
## US Decision Timeline
US Trade Representative opens 2027 eligibility review in June, with no public date for South Africa's removal.
## What's Next
American importers face higher duties after AGOA loss, with January 2027 decision pending.
## Key takeaway

South Africa's president warns of job devastation if US removes AGOA access, which currently supports half a million jobs.