Portugal’s Secretary of State for the Economy, João Rui Ferreira, affirmed during the IX Angola-Portugal Business Networking event in Luanda that Portuguese companies do not fear expanding international competition in the Angolan market.
Speaking ahead of the 41st Luanda International Fair (FILDA), held at the Luanda-Bengo Special Economic Zone, Ferreira emphasized that Portuguese enterprises are well-accustomed to navigating highly competitive global trade environments.
Addressing concerns regarding potential shifts in commercial interest, the official cited strong participation in FILDA and sustained levels of trade and investment as clear evidence of Portugal’s ongoing commitment to Angola.
While recent economic figures indicate a drop in the total number of Portuguese exporting firms down to 2025 compared to 2021, overall export value rose by nearly fifteen percent over the same period, alongside a notable surge in Angolan investment within Portugal.
Read more about this topic: Angolan investment in Portugal now outpaces Portuguese investment in Angola
Ferreira acknowledged that historical ties alone do not guarantee business success, but stressed that deep-seated trust, shared language, and established networks provide a distinct competitive advantage for Portuguese firms. He noted that Angola’s strategy to diversify its economic partners is natural and welcomed, expressing confidence in Portugal’s technological capabilities and startup ecosystem to support Angolan market needs.
Preliminary trade data shows Portuguese exports to Angola grew by nine percent in early 2026, reinforcing optimism for bilateral trade despite broader global economic uncertainties.
