Oxford Economics has revised its growth forecast for Angola’s economy, now projecting a 2.9% expansion this year, driven by an increase in oil production to 1.17 million barrels per day. Analysts from the African department of the British consultancy highlighted that the recovery in oil production is the key factor behind this upward revision, up from the previously anticipated 2.3% growth. In their analysis of Angola’s oil production data, which was shared with clients and
Lucapa Diamond Company reported a $1.3 million loss for the first half of the year due to a market slowdown that led to declining prices for its rough diamonds. This contrasts sharply with a profit of $64,000 during the same period last year. Total revenue dropped by 24% year-on-year to $35.6 million, with the average diamond price falling 26% to $1,213 per carat. Production also declined, with a 12% decrease to 27,362 carats from January
Oxford Economics consultancy has noted that Standard & Poor’s (S&P) decision to maintain Angola’s credit rating at B- is a reflection of the Angolan government’s efforts to stabilize oil production and manage public expenditure. Analysts from Oxford Economics, as reported by Lusa, view this rating as evidence of the government’s attempts to stabilize oil output, control public spending, and reduce reliance on Chinese loans secured by oil revenues. The analysts acknowledge that despite recent declines
The LAR – Lobito Atlantic Railway consortium announced on Friday the successful shipment of its first copper load from the Port of Lobito to the United States. The copper was transported on the container ship MSC SAMU, marking a significant milestone since the consortium took over the Lobito Corridor concession in January 2024. Prior shipments have already been made to ports in Europe and the Far East. According to a statement from LAR, the copper
Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil, and Gas, Diamantino Azevedo, has called on national companies in the mineral exploration sector to invest in the global energy transition, emphasizing the need to address the country’s current and future challenges. During his visit to Cuanza-Sul, the minister highlighted the importance of exploiting natural resources sustainably to benefit the population. Regarding the ongoing ban on quartz and gypsum exploration, Minister Azevedo clarified that the government has established a
Between 2019 and 2024, Angola significantly expanded its diamond cutting industry by opening eight new cutting factories. These include the Stone Polished Diamond factories in Luanda, with a combined processing capacity of 24,000 carats per year, KGK (60,000 carats/year), and Pedra Rubra (60,000 carats/year). At the Saurimo Diamond Development Pole (PDDS), KGK opened additional factories with a capacity of 180,000 carats per year, alongside Stardiam (72,000 carats/year), Kapau Gems (54,000 carats/year), Pollaro (60,000 carats/year), and
Sociedade Mineira de Catoca, operating in Lunda-Sul, is actively working to sell its diamond production from March and April to ensure steady cash flow, despite a decline in international diamond prices. Engrácia João, Deputy General Director for Administration, shared these details during a press briefing in Dundo, Lunda-Norte. João noted that, like other operators, Catoca is grappling with less favorable market conditions, where diamond prices have dropped to between 35% and 50% below the expected
Brent crude oil began yesterday’s session on the London futures exchange with a slight increase, opening at $79.71 per barrel, up from $79.66 at the close of last Friday’s session. During the day’s trading, the price climbed to $80.45 per barrel. This upward trend suggests a positive week ahead, driven by strong global demand and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties that continue to influence oil prices. Although Brent is trading below the $100 mark predicted a few
Chevron, a major player in Angola’s oil sector with a 26% market share, has recently made significant strides to further solidify its presence in the country. In mid-June, the U.S.-based giant signed contracts for two license areas off the coast of Angola—Blocks 49 and 50, located in the ultra-deepwater section of the Lower Congo Basin. A few years ago, this deal would not have been possible. The National Oil, Gas, and Biofuels Agency (ANPG), the
On August 17, 2024, President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola, the outgoing Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), delivered a significant address at the 44th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in Harare, Zimbabwe. President Lourenço underscored the notable progress in industrialization, regional integration, and peacekeeping efforts, while also addressing the challenges that lie ahead. The summit brought together the region’s top leaders to reflect on achievements, tackle current issues,
