The long-awaited event of capital importance for international economic exchanges in the field of sub-Saharan Africa, the AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act) Forum was held from July 25 to 26, 2024 in Washington DC. This high-level annual meeting brings together government representatives from the United States and eligible African countries to strengthen economic and trade ties. This edition of the Forum is of particular importance as the expiration date of the AGOA program is set for September 2025, thus sparking intense discussions regarding its extension.
The ongoing negotiations in Washington involve various actors such as the American Congress, the representation of the African Union, the academic world, the private sector, civil society and international trade consulting agencies. At the heart of the debates are the issues linked to the expansion of China and Russia in Africa, highlighting the challenges posed to American political and military hegemony, as well as access to strategic mineral resources held by countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Chinese companies largely dominate the market.
Indeed, the Democratic Republic of Congo, reintegrated into AGOA in 2021 following democratic and economic reforms undertaken under the presidency of His Excellency Félix-Antoine Tshilombo, must meet the challenge of increasing its exports to the United States. Despite its return to AGOA, the country is struggling to take full advantage of the program, due to lack of an adequate organizational structure and effective initiatives to promote “Made In Congo DRC” products on the American market.
In this context, it is imperative for the DRC to seize the opportunity offered by AGOA and promote its image through targeted initiatives. AGOA member countries benefit from programs such as Power Africa, Prosper Africa, and funding through the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, which aim to stimulate the economic and social development of African countries.
Faced with mixed results in terms of exports to the United States and a crucial need for support to strengthen economic exchanges, the DRC must adopt a strategic and visionary approach within the AGOA Forum. Rather than justifying itself by difficult circumstances, the country must seek to promote its assets and present a convincing value proposition, focused on its natural resources, its fight against global warming, and its potential in the renewable energy sectors, tourism and the diaspora.
In conclusion, the active participation of the DRC in the AGOA Forum is crucial to building solid partnerships, promoting trade and attracting American investments.. By focusing on a strategic approach and leveraging its strengths, the DRC can leave a positive and lasting imprint within the framework of AGOA, thus contributing to its economic development and its successful integration into international trade.