Africa-Press – Angola. Angola plans to liberalize more than 5,000 products with zero tariffs by December for integration into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Free Trade Area, the Secretary of State for Trade and Services Augusta Fortes said on Tuesday in Luanda.
The official made the announcement at the second Methodological Workshop for Authorized Economic Operators (AEO), which is taking place in Luanda and is themed “Strengthening the Strategic Partnership: Good Practices, Innovation, and Sustainability of the AEO Program.”
Fortes stressed that the zero tariff package includes products from the agricultural, fishing, and other sectors.
She said the move reaffirms the Angolan government’s commitment, through the National Committee for Trade Facilitation and other competent bodies, to promoting policies and mechanisms that improve the business environment, diversify the economy, and effectively integrate the country into regional and international trade flows.
Fortes emphasized that implementing the Authorized Economic Operator Program is one of the most decisive strategic actions for modernizing and eliminating red tape in Angola’s foreign trade.
She explained that the initiative falls within the country’s international obligations under the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement.
Fortes highlighted that the launch of the updated Diagnostic Study on Trade Integration (EDIC), supported by the World Bank, is an important milestone in Angola’s commitment to trade system reform.
The update focuses on identifying the main constraints and opportunities affecting the country’s ability to diversify and expand regional and global trade, particularly in the agricultural sector.
According to the official, the EDIC provides a comprehensive analysis of trade policies, trade facilitation, logistics, and the regulatory environment in a context of post-crisis economic recovery and an urgent need to reduce dependence on oil. It proposes a simplified, results-oriented action matrix.
The event aims to improve understanding among stakeholders regarding the requirements, criteria, procedures, and benefits associated with AEO status. Additionally, it seeks to foster collaboration among the relevant institutions to ensure the AEO Program is implemented in Angola in a coordinated, transparent, and effective manner.
Promoted with the technical support of the World Bank, this initiative reflects the CNFC member bodies’ commitment to customs modernization and implementing public policies that promote a more efficient, transparent, and competitive business environment.
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