Trump Moves to Cut Rwanda and South Africa from US Trade Deal After Sanctions

President Donald Trump is moving to remove Rwanda and South Africa from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), the US trade preference program that grants eligible sub-Saharan African countries duty-free access to the American market. The decision comes barely a week after the US Treasury imposed sanctions on Rwanda's defence ministry, signaling a sharp escalation in Washington's pressure on Kigali. South Africa's inclusion in the removal plan adds another major economy to the list, raising questions about the future of US-Africa trade relations under the current administration. The move could affect billions of dollars in exports, thousands of jobs, and key industries such as agriculture, textiles, and automotive components in both countries. For Rwanda, the timing suggests a direct link to ongoing concerns over its role in regional conflicts and human rights issues. For South Africa, the decision may reflect broader disagreements over foreign policy and trade practices. Analysts warn that losing AGOA benefits could push both nations to deepen ties with other global powers, including China and Russia, further reshaping the geopolitical landscape. The final decision now rests with Congress, which has the authority to approve or block the president's recommendation, setting up a potential political battle in Washington.