The Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association (SMART) has called on the U.S. government to renew the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) before its expiration at the end of this month.
SMART, which advocates for U.S. companies involved in the international trade of secondhand clothing and recycled textile products, has sent a letter to USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging prompt action. They emphasize that AGOA must be renewed before September 30, 2025, to prevent U.S. businesses from losing essential protections that facilitate fair and reciprocal trading with African nations.
According to SMART, it is crucial for both Congress and the administration to act swiftly in order to secure ongoing support for American businesses, workers, and sustainable trade practices.
The association highlighted the significance of secondhand clothing and reclaimed textiles, which rank among the top two textile and apparel exports from the U.S. by volume.
Cameron Curtis, the executive director of SMART, explained, “AGOA has been a cornerstone in safeguarding the interests of our sector. When East African Community (EAC) nations attempted to ban imports of secondhand clothing several years ago, it was U.S. leadership—backed by AGOA—that ensured the ban was reversed and fair trade obligations were upheld. The programme remains essential to deterring unfair trade practices and countering China’s growing influence across the continent.”
SMART cautioned that failing to renew AGOA would empower trading partners to impose new barriers against U.S. goods, putting American jobs at risk and undermining the principles of free and fair trade.
Eric Warshaw, ITAC-12 Advisor to SMART, 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. Reauthorization directly strengthens U.S. economic and environmental goals.”
