Lesotho Updates on AGOA Extension and Textile Exports

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Business Development, Honourable Mokhethi Shelile, provided an update on the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) during a press conference held on 19 January 2026 at the Ministry offices. The Minister outlined the recent developments in the legislative process and highlighted Lesotho’s active role in supporting the continuation of AGOA, a key trade framework that benefits African textile exporters.

Honourable Shelile explained that a committee responsible for AGOA matters met in December 2025 to vote on its continuation. Out of all committee members, 37 voted in favour while 3 voted against, allowing the matter to successfully proceed to the United States Congress. This initial step was critical in ensuring that the act could move through the legislative process without delay.

In January 2026, AGOA was formally presented before Congress. Voting took place on 12 January, with 339 members supporting the extension and 54 opposing it. The outcome allowed the bill to advance to the Senate for final consideration. Honourable Shelile noted that four African countries, including Lesotho, were directly involved in this stage of the process, demonstrating the continent’s vested interest in maintaining trade access to the United States market.

The Minister also highlighted the work of the “T5” group, or Textile Five, which includes Madagascar, Mauritius, Tanzania, Kenya, and Lesotho. This coalition represents the African countries that export the most textile products to the United States. Led by Lesotho’s Minister of Trade, the T5 group conducted 30 meetings with members of the U.S. Finance Committee. These discussions were instrumental in clarifying trade concerns and securing broader support for AGOA, ultimately smoothing the voting process in Congress.

Honourable Shelile confirmed that the final voting in the U.S. Senate is expected before the end of January 2026. If the extension receives the necessary votes, it will be sent to U.S. President Donald Trump for signing. Once approved, the law will be valid for three years, allowing textile factories and exporters in Lesotho and other African nations to continue operating with preferential access to the U.S. market. This extension is expected to sustain trade relationships, support economic growth, and provide stability for the textile industry across the region.

Lesotho’s active participation in the AGOA extension process reinforces its position as a leading textile exporter in Africa. The T5 coalition’s efforts, combined with government support, have strengthened Lesotho’s trade partnerships and ensured that the country’s textile sector remains competitive in the international market.