Export to the USA

For African businesses looking to enter or expand in the United States.

Why Export to the USA?

The United States has the largest consumer market in the world, with more than 330 million people and a gross domestic product of over $20 trillion. African businesses across many sectors have opportunities to export to the United States, including those in sectors such as food and beverage, textiles and apparel, equipment and machinery, and more.

Although U.S. markets present massive economic opportunities, these markets can also be challenging to enter and navigate. For example, businesses seeking to export to the United States must meet high standards for product quality, comply with regulatory requirements, supply U.S. buyers with commercial volumes on reliable timelines, and meet consumer expectations.

The U.S. Government has taken unprecedented steps to strengthen trade through the African Growth and Opportunity Act, known as AGOA. Many African countries have beneficiary status under AGOA, which significantly reduces barriers for companies by providing duty-free entry into the United States for many products. Through the Prosper Africa initiative, the U.S. Government offers direct support and tools for African businesses seeking to enter or expand in U.S. markets.

The U.S. Government offers direct support to businesses in Africa, including:

Matchmaking with potential partners.
Help meeting international quality standards and certification requirements.
Grants and financial assistance.
Technical assistance (e.g., for business development, training on export requirements and U.S. quality standards).

Export to the USA — Keys to Success

First time exporters to the United States should familiarize themselves with import/export requirements, available from a variety of free online sources. Here are three keys to a successful exporting experience:

1. Do Your Homework.

Businesses wishing to export to the United States should first consult the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Basic Importing and Exporting Requirements and What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know… to understand U.S. import requirements.

2. Understand what AGOA Means for Your Business.

African businesses should also consult the AGOA Exporter Toolkit, which contains the practical information, business directories, and intelligence necessary for successful export to the USA utilizing AGOA. The AGOA Export Documentation and FDA Labeling Requirements primer, produced by the USAID West Africa Trade & Investment Hub, can provide more detailed information specific to agricultural exports.

3. Develop a Network of Contacts in the United States.

U.S. Government agencies, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection, are responsible for goods entering the United States, but the trade ecosystem in the United States is private sector-led: Tax and legal experts, export promotion organizations, chambers of commerce, nonprofits, and state trade offices are valuable resources for African businesses seeking to export to the United States.

Consider consulting these and similar organizations for networking opportunities:

U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Corporate Council on Africa (CCA)
Regional U.S./African Chambers of Commerce
- East Africa Chamber of Commerce
- Africa Chamber of Commerce Pacific Northwest
State International Development Offices
District Export Councils

4. Be Prepared for the Unexpected.

Is your business prepared to weather unexpected events such as supply chain or security disruptions? Contingency planning is critical to successful export experiences.