African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA)
The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is a United States trade act. 
The legislation was enacted on 18 May 2000. It significantly enhances unhindered market access to the USA for Nigeria. Its purpose is to assist sub-Saharan economies (as Nigeria) improving economic relations with USA. It provides trade preferences for quota and duty-free entry into the USA for certain goods.
AGOA is currently in act until 2025. After completion of the initial 15-year period it was extended by one more decennium, including newly added products. The products newly covered by the legislation include items such as:
- Agricultural products
- Apparel and footwear
- Motor vehicle components
- Chemicals
- Wine
- Steel
Find complete list of products
Your benefits
So why is this act interesting for you as exporter? AGOA provides Nigerian exporters with numerous attractive advantages in doing international business:
- Duty-free access for eligible products to USA
- Significant competitive tariff advantages over non-AGOA countries
- Encouragement of regional integration and production sharing among beneficiary countries
- Security of the act ensured until 2025
Documentation requirements
To be duty-free eligible under AGOA, US customs requires a certificate of origin and an AGOA stamp on a commercial invoice. These documents are needed in addition to the always required documentation for imports. You cannot apply for AGOA certification in the US. It must be done by yourself in Nigeria.
If you want to benefit from AGOA, please contact our regional NEPC-office in Lagos:
- E-mail: …lagos@nepc.gov.ng e.bolanle@nepc.gov.ng
