Eligible Countries: Exporters must be from a Sub-Saharan African country with AGOA beneficiary status.
Product Eligibility: Products must be classified as AGOA-eligible in the U.S. tariff schedule (program indicator ‘D’).
Origin Criteria: Products must meet the rules of origin, ensuring sufficient local processing.
Direct Shipment: Products must be directly imported into the U.S. from the AGOA-eligible country.
Rules of Origin (RoO)
General Goods: The combined direct cost of materials and processing must equal or exceed 35% of the product’s appraised value at the U.S. port of entry, with up to 15% consisting of U.S.-origin materials.
Textiles and Apparel: Different rules apply, such as garments needing to be made up locally, though fabric can be sourced globally.
Product Classification and Documentation
Tariff Classification: Each traded good has a unique classification code in the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) of the U.S. Correct classification is crucial for duty-free entry.
Required Documentation: Includes invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and U.S. import forms (e.g., Entry Summary CBP 7501).
Compliance and Other Requirements
Certificates: For textiles, a Certificate of Origin is required, stamped by customs authorities in the exporting country.
Regulatory Compliance: Exported goods must comply with U.S. regulations from agencies like the FDA, USDA, and EPA.
