Three Scenarios for the Future of AGOA

Photo © John Sonderman/ flickr

On September 30, 2015, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) will expire. The act provides duty free access to the US, and if it lapses could threaten 62,395 jobs in South Africa alone.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act At a Glance

Photo © Rodger Bosch, MediaClubSouthAfrica.com

In the lead up to the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit, taking place from 4 to 6 August, all eyes are on the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). South Africa currently qualifies trade preferences under the Act, along with 38 other African states. But just what is the Act, why is it important, and what is the current state of trade between the US and Africa?

BRICS – Anyone banking on security?

Photo © UN Photo/Devra Berkowitz

Hardly a multilateral meeting goes by without its attendees committing themselves to the promotion of peace and security across the globe. The Sixth BRICS Summit, hosted from 14-16 July in Brazil, was no exception.