HUAMBO: The Netherlands is set to import avocados from Angola’s central Huambo province by 2025, a move that could establish a consistent and growing trade flow of the fruit, often referred to as “green gold.” Tsjeard Hoekstra, the ambassador of the Netherlands to Angola, announced this initiative on Wednesday, encouraging Angolan entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector to participate in this venture.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Hoekstra made this announcement during the launch of the first avocado cluster in Huambo province, funded by the Netherlands with 1.1 million euros as part of investments in the Caála Logistics Platform. The ambassador highlighted the urgency and dedication of the Netherlands in choosing Angola as a key partner for this initiative.
Hoekstra emphasized the Netherlands’ contribution to developing a cold chain logistics platform, aimed at facilitating access to international markets and enhancing Angola’s agricultural potential. He noted that the Netherlands has been suppor
ting young entrepreneurs in Angola since 2018 through the ‘Orange Corners’ program, which will now focus more on the agricultural sector in Huambo.
The launch of the avocado cluster is seen as a significant step in the collaboration between Angola and the Netherlands, expected to enhance avocado production in Huambo and contribute to the success of the Caála Logistics Platform and regional development.
Hoekstra also pointed out the importance of identifying new areas of origin for fruit production to maintain the Netherlands’ position in Europe’s agro-logistics chain. This collaboration could ensure Angolan avocados become part of the global trade flow, benefiting from the facilities at Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port.
Efforts are underway by a specialist from the Netherlands food safety authority, who is collaborating with Angola’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to implement electronic certification and phytosanitary rules, opening new avenues for Angolan exports.
Angelino Elavoco, the deputy gove
rnor for Huambo province, remarked that the partnership marks a new era of cooperation between Angola and the Netherlands, focusing on commercial relations that promote growth and national development. Elavoco highlighted the potential benefits for small family farmers and the opportunity for large-scale production and international trade.
The initiative is supported by a subsidy contract worth 1.1 million euros, integrating small local producers with the necessary resources to expedite the export process. The Caála Logistics Platform, strategically located in the Lobito Corridor, is backed by a partnership involving the Angolan government, the Netherlands, the Flying Swans Consortium, and the World Bank.