USTR Revives Africa Trade Advisory Group
Published Date: 3/4/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Trade Representative is renewing the Trade Advisory Committee on Africa for another four years and is looking for new members to join. If you’re interested in helping shape trade policies that affect sub-Saharan Africa, now’s the time to apply! Applications are due within three weeks, but they’ll keep accepting nominations as spots open up.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
TACA Renewed — Apply Now
The Trade Advisory Committee on Africa (TACA) is being renewed for a new four-year charter term (four years from the date of filing). If you or your organization want to influence U.S. trade policy affecting sub-Saharan Africa, you can apply now; applications received within three weeks of the filing get full consideration and nominations are accepted on a rolling basis afterward.
Members Serve Unpaid — Pay Their Own Costs
TACA members serve without compensation or reimbursement of expenses and are responsible for all expenses they incur to attend meetings or participate in activities. USTR confirms there are no proposed payments to members.
Security Clearance & Background Cost
Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance or complete a background investigation and non-disclosure agreement. USTR notes DOJ-facilitated background investigations would cost around $370 per clearance.
Strict U.S. Organization Eligibility Rules
Representative members must represent a U.S. organization that meets specific control and revenue tests: more than 50 percent of the board and membership must be U.S. citizens/U.S. entities, and at least 50 percent of the organization's annual revenue must come from nongovernmental U.S. sources.
Application Materials and Timing Rules
To be considered, applicants must submit one PDF with name/title/affiliation/contact, a sponsor letter on organization letterhead, a resume or bio, and an affirmative statement that they meet eligibility criteria. Applications should be received no later than three weeks from the filing for full consideration; nominations are accepted on a rolling basis until the charter expires (four years from filing).
SGE Appointees Face Disclosure Rules
A very limited number of members may serve in an individual capacity as special government employees (SGEs). SGEs are subject to conflict-of-interest rules and may have to complete a financial disclosure report.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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