UK-Angola trade mission strengthens economic ties
Source: gov.uk (2025-05-14)

British businesses explore Angola’s crucial sectors, forging partnerships for continued sustainable growth.

His Majesty’s Ambassador Bharat Joshi welcomed UK Trade Envoy Calvin Bailey MBE MP and a delegation of over 20 UK businesses eager to explore investment opportunities in Angola’s rapidly expanding infrastructure, agriculture and financial services sectors.

Together they have successfully launched their first trade and investment mission to Angola on 6 to 7 May 2025. This reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to fostering international partnerships that drive sustainable economic growth.

HM Trade Envoy to Angola, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, Angolan Minister for Planning, Vitor Hugo Guilherme, HM Ambassador to Angola, Bharat Joshi, Angolan Deputy Minister for Industry, Carlos Carvalho and Director for Europe at the Angolan MFA, Ambassador Maria Cuandina de Carvalho

During the mission, delegates engaged in strategic site visits to landmark projects, such as: the New Luanda International Airport and the Special Economic Zone (ZEE). These visits complemented a high-profile business forum in Luanda. British and Angolan leaders, including H.E. Minister of Planning Victor Hugo Guilherme, H.E. Deputy Minister for Industry Carlos Rodrigues and H.E. Deputy Minister for Public Investment Ivan dos Santos, discussed collaboration opportunities to deliver mutual economic benefits.

His Majesty’s Ambassador Bharat Joshi highlighted the importance of the mission, stating:

I am proud to welcome the first Trade Mission of my tenure, led by UK Trade Envoy Calvin Bailey MBE MP.

UK companies have a fantastic record of creating local wealth and jobs, investing in local skills and markets and supporting development programmes that make a real difference in communities.

The size of the delegation reflects our excitement about the opportunities in Angola to build sustainable, long-term partnerships that deliver for both our countries.

Trade and investment remain central to the UK government’s international strategy, unlocking opportunities, generating high-quality jobs and improving livelihoods in both nations.

UK Trade Envoy Calvin Bailey reinforced this vision, stating:

Angola is a land of opportunity. This trade mission demonstrates the UK government’s commitment to forging stronger economic partnerships with Angola.

With £2.5 billion in bilateral trade already flowing between our nations, we’re connecting British expertise with one of Africa’s most dynamic economies through engagements at transformative projects like the Luanda Special Economic Zone and the New Luanda International Airport, creating meaningful opportunities that deliver prosperity for both our nations.

The mission has already delivered tangible results, with investment discussions underway and promising business relationships established. These efforts mark more than commercial transactions – they signify a deepening of the UK-Angola economic partnership, paving the way for long-term prosperity.

Delegates visit to the New Dr. António Agostinho Neto in Luanda

As the UK continues to strengthen its global trade relationships, this mission represents a significant milestone in fostering sustainable growth and opportunities that will benefit businesses and communities across both nations.