Botswanaā€™s exports to the United States, including its globally renowned natural diamonds, are once again entering the American market duty-free following the expiry of temporary U.S. tariffs on 24 July 2026.
According to an official update, the expiration of Section 122 tariffs under the U.S. Trade Act of 1974 means Botswana-origin products now attract a 0% tariff and continue to benefit from preferential access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
The development removes the immediate tariff-related risk that had affected Botswanaā€™s exports to the U.S.
Botswana was previously subjected to a temporary 10% tariff after changes to U.S. trade policy, but unlike several other countries, it was not included in ongoing Section 301 investigations into forced labour practices or excess production capacity.
Despite the positive development, authorities caution that uncertainty remains. AGOA, which provides Botswana with preferential access to the U.S. market, is due to expire on 31 December 2026, with renewal discussions expected to intensify in the U.S. Congress later this year.
Officials also highlighted India as the biggest commercial risk to Botswanaā€™s diamond industry.
While India currently faces a 10% tariff on exports to the U.S., further trade measures remain possible, creating uncertainty for the global diamond value chain in which Botswana plays a significant role.
Botswanaā€™s priority now is to preserve its tariff-free access to the U.S. market while closely monitoring international trade developments that could affect the countryā€™s diamond exports and broader economy.
