AGOA runs out on 31 December 2026 and nothing is queued to replace it. But five other duty routes already exist, and one of them — China's zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries — went live in May 2026 and is larger in scope than AGOA ever was. Here is the honest comparison.
<p class="lead"><strong>AGOA's current authorisation ends on 31 December 2026, and there is no successor programme in law.</strong> The honest answer to "what replaces AGOA" is: nothing, automatically. But that is not the same as having no options. Five other duty routes already exist for African exporters, and one of them — China's zero-tariff treatment, live since 1 May 2026 — covers 100% of tariff lines for 53 African countries, which is broader coverage than AGOA has ever offered. This is a comparison of all six, with the qualification test for each.</p> <h2>The six routes at a glance</h2> <table> <thead><tr><th>Route</th><th>Who qualifies</th><th>Coverage</th><th>Status into 2027</th></tr></thead> <tbody> <tr><td><strong>AGOA</strong> (US)</td><td>32 eligible sub-Saharan countries</td><td>~1,800 lines on top of GSP</td><td>Expires 31 Dec 2026</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>US GSP</strong></td><td>Designated developing countries</td><td>~5,000 lines</td><td>Requires its own Congressional authorisation — verify current status</td></tr> <tr><td><strong>US MFN</strong></td><td>Everyone with normal trade relations</td><td>All lines, at the General rate</td><td>Permanent