Expert urges businesses to prepare for AGOA loss in January
Supply chain expert Paul Forster says South African firms should review contracts, assess their exposure and diversify supply chains now. He said they should not wait for political talks to end, as the country may lose US trade benefits.
Forster said less than one percent of global trade is directly exposed to the loss of benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). He added that certain export sectors face significant risks.
He said trade with other African countries offers opportunities. In his view, poor infrastructure and border delays on the continent remain major obstacles.
Forster said South Africa cannot control every decision made in Washington. He said the country can control how competitive it makes itself. The Trump administration suspended South Africa from AGOA.
Key facts
- Who
- Paul Forster (Supply chain expert); Trump administration (US administration that suspended South Africa from AGOA)
- What
- Supply chain expert Paul Forster urged South African businesses to review contracts, assess exposure and diversify supply chains ahead of a possible loss of US AGOA trade benefits from January. He said less than one percent of global trade is directly exposed, though certain export sectors face significant risks.
- When
- 7 November 2026
- Where
- South Africa, United States, Africa
- Status
- Reported