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Wisconsin Congresswoman Gwen Moore spoke on AGOA, labor standards, and the future of North American competitiveness.

By Ellie Gustafson

Rep. Gwen Moore (D-WI) speaks at Center Forward’s Trade Summit on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in Washington, D.C.

Rep. Gwen Moore (D-WI) joined Center Forward’s American Economic Leadership and Trade Summit for a fireside chat focused on strengthening international trade partnerships, promoting global economic development, and ensuring trade agreements deliver benefits for workers and businesses alike.

The discussion centered on the future of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), the upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), and the role labor and environmental standards play in supporting long-term economic growth.

Congresswoman Moore emphasized the importance of AGOA as a cornerstone of U.S.-Africa economic engagement, noting the broad bipartisan support for extending the program ahead of its expiration at the end of 2026. The Congresswoman highlighted Africa’s rapidly growing and increasingly young workforce as a major opportunity for deeper future economic partnership.

The conversation also examined the role labor and environmental standards play in modern trade agreements. USMCA exemplifies how trade policy can support both economic growth and improved labor conditions. Congresswoman Moore highlighted labor enforcement provisions included in the agreement and cited increases in Mexico’s minimum wage as one example of how trade-related reforms can contribute to large-scale improvement in economic outcomes and poverty reduction. 

Looking ahead to the USMCA review process, Congresswoman Moore stressed the importance of maintaining strong enforcement mechanisms to deliver results. She also discussed rules-of-origin requirements, noting their role in strengthening regional supply chains and encouraging production within North America.

As policymakers and business leaders prepare for key decisions on AGOA renewal and the future of USMCA, Congresswoman Moore’s remarks reflected a broader focus on ensuring trade policy supports the working class, strengthens international partnerships, and positions the United States for long-term economic success.