Australian Investors Eye Angola’s Critical Minerals and Mining Opportunities
Angola has positioned itself as an emerging destination for Australian investment, particularly in mining and critical minerals, as the country seeks to attract international capital and expand development of its mineral resources.
Speaking at the first Australia–Angola Business Forum in Perth, Australian businessman Stephen Lee Wetherall described Angola as a safe and recommendable destination for Australian private investment in Africa.
Wetherall, who has worked in Angola since 2014, said the country had made significant and positive improvements to its business environment between 2014 and 2026, while identifying areas where further progress could help attract greater Australian direct investment.
The forum was held as part of Angola Day at the Africa Down Under conference and brought together Australian mining executives, business leaders, government representatives and Angolan companies.
Angola has been seeking to strengthen its presence among Australian investors as it develops a diversified portfolio of mineral resources, including diamonds, iron ore, copper, niobium, rare earths and other critical minerals.
The Angolan government has also been promoting regulatory and institutional reforms aimed at improving transparency, predictability and the investment environment, while encouraging international companies to bring technology, innovation and technical expertise into the country’s mining sector.
Australian companies already active in Angola include Rio Tinto and Tyranna Resources, while BHP has also expressed interest in establishing operations in the country.
The Australia–Angola forum provided an opportunity to strengthen commercial ties between the two countries and promote investment opportunities in Angola’s mining industry, particularly in critical minerals and emerging exploration projects.
The two countries are expected to continue strengthening cooperation as Angola seeks to attract more international investment and Australian companies explore opportunities across its expanding mining sector.
