Includes typical use of agents and distributors and how to find a good partner, e.g., whether use of an agent or distributor is legally required
Last Published: 8/22/2019

An agent or distributor is important for success when establishing new business activities in Angola.   A limited number of companies dominate domestic distribution.  These firms are willing to partner with foreign companies exporting to Angola, but they may also represent competing products.  A limited number of U.S. companies operate subsidiary or affiliate companies in Angola concentrating in the information technology, automotive, petroleum, heavy equipment, and services sectors.   U.S. companies should conduct careful due diligence on potential business partners and select well-established companies already experienced with representing international products.

Given the current economic climate in Angola of limited access to credit and long and arduous delays in securing foreign exchange, some Angolan distributors and agents are reluctant to enter into new business agreements due to the investments associated with business expansion.  Many Angolan distributors with existing international product lines are facing limited inventory since international payments have been typically delayed several months or more.  In many cases, both Angolan importers and international suppliers are opting for cash in advance payment terms with some arranging for non-traditional payment structuring through third countries.

The U.S. Commercial Service in Angola provides business services to assist U.S. companies in the identification and due diligence of qualified business partners, distributors and representatives.   For details on these services and to find your closest U.S. Commercial Service office in the United States to start this process visit Export.gov's website (www.export.gov).
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.