The top U.S. diplomat for Africa, Ambassador Troy Fitrell, addressed concerns about U.S. trade practices and funding for a key African railway project at the U.S.-Africa Business Summit in Luanda.
Fitrell dismissed allegations of “abusive” tariff proposals and tightening visa conditions that have been raised by African Union officials and leaders.
He stated there is “no visitation ban,” and while some visas may have shorter validity due to overstay concerns, U.S. consulates are still issuing them regularly.
He clarified that proposed U.S. import tariffs are not yet implemented and are part of ongoing negotiations for a more reciprocal trading environment, including the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty-free access for qualifying African nations to the U.S. market.
Fitrell also reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to the Lobito Corridor railway project, which connects Angola’s coast to Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s copper regions, calling it a “win-win” for investors and African economies and stating it is “not at risk.”
Angolan President João Lourenço, speaking at the summit, urged U.S. companies to shift from an aid-based approach to investment and trade partnerships, encouraging diversification into various sectors.
