JOHANNESBURG - South Africa is lobbying the US for a 15-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act.
It comes amid growing scrutiny from Washington over trade and foreign policy concerns.
Government says a longer agreement would provide certainty for investors and protect key export industries, including automotive manufacturing, agriculture and textiles.
Pretoria argues South Africa should remain eligible despite its upper-middle-income status, saying inequality and poverty levels must also be considered.
Business leaders warn uncertainty around AGOA along with new US tariffs on vehicles, steel and aluminum are already hurting exports and investment confidence.