US tariffs: 'We won’t condone America first, Africa last' – AfCFTA Secretary-General

African trade ministers will meet next week to discuss new US tariffs. This follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump. The order introduces import tariffs for countries worldwide.

Some African nations, like Lesotho, may face tariffs up to 50%. Ghana will see a baseline import tax of 10%. Trump stated that the US is affected by trade barriers from other countries.

Wamkele Keabetswe Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), announced the meeting on April 14. He emphasized the need for Africa to create a viable trade market within the continent.

The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has been vital for many African exports since its approval in 2000. In 2022, two-way trade between AGOA members and the US exceeded $46 billion. AGOA recipients exported $30 billion worth of goods to the US that year.

However, AGOA's framework expires in September. There are concerns that Trump's stance may hinder renewal efforts. Despite this, Mene believes Africa should not be discouraged by the new tariffs.

He noted that Africa’s exports under AGOA focus on minerals, petroleum, vehicles, and cashew nuts. "Our continent is more than just about cashew nuts or processed commodities," he said.

Mene sees this situation as an opportunity for Africa to build a self-sufficient market while engaging with global economies.

The AfCFTA Secretariat recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Bar Association of the United States. This agreement aims to enhance cooperation with the African diaspora and support legal partnerships under AfCFTA.

Questions have arisen about whether this MoU will benefit Africa given Trump's “America First” rhetoric. However, Mene insists that AfCFTA will pursue mutually beneficial partnerships based on respect.

"We will not condone or support 'America First' at others' expense," he stated. He emphasized that Africa's interests must come first regardless of AGOA's future after September.