U.S. apparel imports from African countries climbed to $1.29 billion in the January–April 2025 period, signaling robust growth and resilience amid shifting global trade dynamics. The figure highlights increasing interest in sourcing apparel from the continent, although it remains a small share of total U.S. import volumes.
This recent performance comes against a backdrop of broader textile-import growth in the U.S. The country reported total textiles and apparel import values of $35.37 billion during the same period—an 8.78% increase year-on-year—largely led by a 10.67% rise in apparel imports overall. Despite this uptick, garments from Africa made up only a modest portion of the mix, underlining opportunities for expansion.
While China and Vietnam remain dominant, several African nations have begun gaining traction as reliable suppliers. These gains are especially relevant for countries participating in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which has offered duty-free access to U.S. markets for eligible apparel exports since 2000.
However, recent U.S. trade policy shifts, including reciprocal tariff measures introduced in April 2025, may complicate the competitive landscape. These new tariffs, which range between 10% to over 50%, particularly impact formerly duty-free African apparel exports—raising concerns about future demand and competitiveness.
Analysts expect that growth in U.S. apparel imports from Africa could be gently constrained going forward unless trade policies evolve or African exporters respond through value-added production or market diversification. Still, the $1.29 billion figure reflects emerging momentum and an evolving global sourcing strategy.
Moving ahead, the trajectory will likely hinge on trade legislation outcomes, tariff negotiations, and how African suppliers adapt to shifting market conditions.
