Lawmaker unveils US economic engagement plan with Africa to counter China

{mosads}The recommendations include: 

• Supporting African-led efforts to improve the business climate on the continent and removing barriers to trade;

• Reauthorizing and strengthening the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a system of trade preferences for eligible countries, well in advance of its 2015 expiration;

• Improving coordination between U.S. government agencies and developing a comprehensive interagency strategy for increased investment in sub-Saharan Africa;

• Increasing the presence of U.S. Foreign Commercial Service Officers in sub-Saharan Africa to help U.S. companies navigate the business climate in the region;

• Increasing support for agencies that provide financing to encourage U.S. commercial engagement overseas, mitigate investment risks, and generate a profit for American taxpayers; and

• Engaging the African diaspora community in the U.S. to strengthen economic ties.