Luanda: The request for authorization for the President of the Republic to legislate on the Legal Regime of Industrial Development Poles was approved on Monday, unanimously, by the Members of the National Assembly, with 191 votes in favor. The legislative initiative, which received favorable votes from parliamentarians during the 5th Ordinary Plenary Meeting of the 5th Legislature, aims to boost the development of the industry sector by enhancing existing industrial development poles, limiting the barriers of the current management regime by incorporating private entities in the management and exploitation of these infrastructures.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the bill also plans to stimulate the growth of the industrial sector and boost the national economy. The vote in favor of this document was preceded by several interventions by Members of the Parliament (MP), who debated topics such as fishing industrialization, diamond mining, agro-industry, mining training, and industrial infrastructures.

UNITA MP Armando Caquepa emphasized the strategic importance of the bill on the Legal Regime of Industrial Development Poles, suggesting it could be a turning point for Angola's economy, particularly in the province of Cuanza-Sul. He described this area as a 'mosaic of potential', highlighting its natural and human resources alongside its strategic location.

In the agro-industry field, Caquepa noted that despite fertile land and diversified production, producers face challenges such as a lack of infrastructure, financing, and competition from imports. He advocated for tax incentives, accessible credit, and support for local transformation to overcome these hurdles.

For the oil and gas sector, Caquepa highlighted the issue of 'brain drain' due to the decline of the local job market and the collapse of companies related to oil activities despite Cuanza-Sul's capability to train qualified staff.

In the mining, construction, and fishing sectors, he pointed out the enormous potential that remains underexplored, despite available mineral resources, a cement industry, and a vast sea coast. Caquepa also called for the creation of a business environment favorable to investment, modernization, local processing, and the creation of sustainable value.

MPLA MP Ireno Nambalo stressed that industrial development is not merely a choice but a historical, strategic, and urgent necessity. He asserted that industrialization is a pillar of economic sovereignty, an engine for sustainable wealth creation, and a secure path toward growth for all Angolan families.