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Congress·Passed House·20 days ago

Trade: Extending Tax-Free Imports from African Countries

Also known as: AGOA Extension Act

Legislative Progress

✓ Filed
✓ Review
✓ House
Senate
President

Key Points

  • Congress is extending a trade program that allows many goods from sub-Saharan African countries to enter the U.S. without paying import taxes. This program, which was set to end in late 2025, will now continue through December 31, 2028.
  • The plan specifically helps the clothing industry by allowing African-made apparel and fabrics to be sold in the U.S. at lower prices. This supports economic growth in those countries while helping keep costs stable for American businesses and shoppers.
  • Because the previous version of this program expired before this extension was passed, the law allows businesses to get refunds for taxes they paid on imports during the gap. Companies have 180 days to ask the government for their money back.
  • To help cover government costs, the bill also extends certain fees that businesses pay when moving goods across the border. These customs fees will now remain in place until the end of 2031.

Milestones

3 milestones17 actions
Feb 10, 2026Senate

Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 320.

Feb 9, 2026Senate

Read the first time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under Read the First Time.

Jan 13, 2026Senate

Received in the Senate.

Jan 12, 2026House

Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Jan 12, 2026House

On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 340 - 54 (Roll no. 14). (text: CR H637)

Vote Results

1 vote
HousePassedProceduralJan 12, 2026

On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended

340
54
Democrat
191 – 11 · 11
Republican
149 – 43 · 26
View full roll call

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

AGOA Extension Act

Bill NumberHR 6500
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionRead the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 320.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(1)
R: 1

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