Doing Business in Angola

There are many challenges associated with doing business in Angola, including a lack of infrastructure, bureaucracy, high costs and limited human resources. Nevertheless, with its rich natural resources, a growing economy and infrastructure-development projects, many opportunities exist for expats seeking to do business in this African country.

The oil and gas sectors still dominate the Angolan business world, but the government is keen to diversify the economy. Sectors such as education and training, construction, financial services, and agriculture are also growing rapidly and providing opportunities for expats.

Although the government has worked hard to eliminate corruption, it remains a persistent problem, and the country continues to rank low on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.

Fast facts

Business hours

A typical work week in Angola runs from Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, with a lunch break of about an hour. Many businesses close early on Fridays.

Business language

Portuguese is the official language in Angola, but English is usually understood at the senior management level in the oil and gas industry.

Dress

Business attire is typically fairly casual. Due to the hot climate, men wear lightweight suits, while women wear longer jackets and skirts.

Gifts

Gifts are generally not expected but are welcomed. They will probably be opened immediately.

Greeting

A handshake is the most common greeting between both men and women. Greetings are important in Angolan culture, and it’s usual to inquire about the other person’s family or general well-being. Elders should be greeted first.

Gender equality

Although women share equal rights with men, Angola remains a largely patriarchal society, and few women occupy senior executive posts.

Business culture in Angola

If you’re moving to Angola for business, you will find that the business culture differs significantly from that of Western societies. New arrivals will need to adapt to these nuances if they want to be successful in the Angolan market.

Hierarchy

Angola’s business culture is formal, and business structures are hierarchical. Status is key in Angolan society, and decision-making typically lies with the most senior person in a company. That said, final decisions are often made after consultations with subordinates. This can be a slow process as all options are weighed carefully, so you should be patient as a businessperson in Angola.

Building trust

Angolans, as is the case in many countries, prefer to do business with people they know and trust. It’s, therefore, important for you to get to know your Angolan counterparts and build trust with business associates at all levels.

Communication

Portuguese is the primary language in Angola, so it’s useful to learn a few relevant key phrases. Although most senior executives in the oil and gas industry speak English, associates at lower levels may not.

Titles and greetings are critical, and introductions are initially formal and marked by handshakes. Personal space isn’t a big consideration for Angolans, so people regularly stand close to each other when conversing, and moving away may be considered offensive.

Punctuality

Time is flexible in Angola, and although expats should arrive on time for meetings, their Angolan counterparts won’t always do the same – it’s not unusual for a meeting to start late and be interrupted several times. You should be patient and not show disapproval or irritation if this occurs.

Dos and don’ts of business in Angola

• Do always greet Angolan counterparts properly; elders should be greeted first
• Do get to know Angolan associates, as building trust is essential
• Don’t assume that Angolan business associates will understand English. An interpreter may be necessary for meetings
• Do arrive on time for meetings, but don’t expect that local associates will do the same
• Don’t rush business in Angola. Expect that business decisions will take time, so patience is required.