AGOAAfrica.trade is a comprehensive and complimentary informational resource developed by the Agate Trade Academy, aimed at empowering businesses to capitalize on the immense potential of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). This groundbreaking initiative is designed to facilitate duty-free exports from the African continent to the United States, fostering economic growth and strengthening trade relationships between the two regions.
The Agate Trade Academy leverages its extensive expertise in international trade compliance and global logistics to provide businesses with a wealth of valuable insights, practical guidance, and essential resources. By demystifying the complexities of AGOA and its associated regulations, this platform serves as a catalyst for businesses seeking to expand their reach to the American market and benefit from the preferential trade opportunities offered by this landmark legislation.
Whether you are an established exporter looking to diversify your markets or a budding entrepreneur seeking to tap into the vast potential of the African continent, AGOAAfrica.trade is your trusted partner in navigating the intricacies of AGOA. With a user-friendly interface, comprehensive resources, and a commitment to excellence, this platform empowers businesses of all sizes to unlock the doors to duty-free trade, fostering economic growth, and forging stronger ties between the United States and Africa.
The U.S. market demand for African exports is at an all-time high. It’s navigating the intricate web of certification criteria and compliance requirements where African exporters get bogged down and miss out on the opportunity to capitalize on burgeoning U.S. demand for their products.
About the Agate Trade Academy
The Agate Trade Academy stands as a premier educational institution dedicated to empowering global trade professionals through its excellence in International Trade Compliance and Global Logistics. Offering credits by the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America – National Education Institute (NCBFAA), the Academy has a team of seasoned educators who bring a wealth of textbook knowledge and real-world experience to equip the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of global trade successfully.
What sets the Agate Trade Academy apart is its unwavering commitment to customer service and its deep understanding of the intricacies of global trade. With a relentless pursuit of excellence, the Academy is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their full potential in the dynamic world of international commerce. By combining cutting-edge curriculum, industry-leading instructors, and a student-centric approach, the Agate Trade Academy is paving the way for the next generation of global trade professionals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an increasingly interconnected business landscape.
meet the founder
Agate Trade Academy, through its parent-company Agate Solutions, is a certified Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB), and is the brainchild of Shaquana Teasley, MSLR, CCS, DBS. As the Founder and Principal, Shaquana’s vision is to empower organizations and individuals in navigating the intricate landscape of international trade compliance. With her extensive expertise in Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs), Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification and tariff engineering, free trade agreements, risk assessments, readiness assessments, and compliance process reviews; and, a minority-owned enterprise, Agate Solutions is uniquely positioned to provide tailored solutions and guidance to African and American businesses seeking to thrive in the global marketplace.
With over 20 years of experience in the international trade and global logistics industry, Shaquana is widely recognized as an expert in her field. Her extensive and highly specialized background allows her to be an industry leader, particularly in areas such as duty savings and recovery, where she has achieved career savings of over $30 million. Shaquana is also a specialist in the transportation of hazardous materials.
Shaquana holds several prestigious certifications, including:
She is an active member of the International Compliance Professionals of America (ICPA Atlanta Data Group) and the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). Additionally, Shaquana serves as a Board of Director for the Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT New York City Chapter) and Troops2Logistics.
Shaquana holds a Master of Science in Logistics and Risk Management (MSLR) from the University of New Haven.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Shaquana is known for her vibrant personality and passion for teaching and mentoring others in the industry. Her signature “Shaq Breakdown” instruction style emphasizes realism, mentorship, and simplicity, making complex concepts comprehensible and enjoyable for learners.
Agate Solutions is an extension of Shaquana’s teachings and her commitment to serving the international trade community. The company’s mission is to equip organizations and individuals of all backgrounds with the tools and resources necessary to grow their skills and better define their future success in the industry.
