Angola: Government Adds Maize to Regulated Imports List

• Angola adds maize to regulated consumer goods imports list as part of efforts to encourage domestic production.
• Licensed economic operators importing maize must purchase at least 30% of domestically produced maize.
• The move aims to promote domestic output and strengthen integration across production value chains.
• The decision was made during the 3rd Ordinary Meeting of the Economic Commission of the Council of Ministers, chaired by President João Lourenço.

"The amendment to the current regulation seeks to include another product - maize - and once again send a clear signal to the market that the Government will continue to prioritise domestic production," said Industry and Commerce Minister Rui Miguêns de Oliveira.

Angola's government has taken another step towards prioritizing domestic production by adding maize to its list of regulated consumer goods imports. This move is part of a broader effort to encourage national production and reduce reliance on imported products. The inclusion of maize in the import regulation will require licensed economic operators to purchase at least 30% of their total volume from domestic producers. This new requirement aims to promote the marketing of domestic output and strengthen integration across production value chains. According to Industry and Commerce Minister Rui Miguêns de Oliveira, the amendment to Executive Decree No. 130/26 will help send a clear signal to the market that the government is committed to supporting domestic production.

The decision to add maize to the regulated import list was made during the 3rd Ordinary Meeting of the Economic Commission of the Council of Ministers, chaired by President João Lourenço. The meeting reviewed a proposed order that updates the list of widely consumed products covered by the legal framework designed to encourage national production. The new regulation will also establish obligations for licensed economic operators importing maize, including purchasing domestically produced maize equivalent to at least 30% of the total volume imported. This move is in line with the government's commitment to promoting and increasing national production, as stated by Minister Miguêns de Oliveira.

The inclusion of maize in the regulated import list has significant implications for businesses operating in Angola. Licensed economic operators will need to adapt to new filing requirements and obligations imposed on them, including purchasing a minimum 30% of domestically produced maize. This change is expected to promote domestic production and reduce reliance on imported products. The move also reflects the government's commitment to supporting national production and encouraging sustainable development. As the Angolan economy continues to grow, this decision will have far-reaching consequences for businesses, consumers, and the overall economic landscape.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for the new filing requirements and obligations imposed on licensed economic operators importing maize, including purchasing a minimum 30% of domestically produced maize.

Source: Original reporting via ANGOP