Angola: Angola Agriculture Profile

Cereal production expected to increase in 2014

Harvesting of the 2014 cereal crops is ongoing and expected to conclude in July. Generally favourable climatic conditions were observed during the 2013/14 cropping season (October-May) in the main cereal-producing central regions. As a result, national cereal production is estimated to increase to above-average levels compared to last year’s average output, which was partly suppressed by dry weather. However, dry spells in coastal areas are expected to dampen crop production, particularly in the southern province of Namibe, where this year’s cereal output is anticipated to decline on account of water deficits.

The enhanced rains this season have also helped to improve pasture and livestock conditions.

Inflation rate declined gradually at the start of 2014

The annual inflation rate during the first four months of 2014 declined gradually and in April was recorded at about 7 percent compared to 9 percent a year earlier. Reflecting this trend, cereal prices in Luanda have remained comparatively stable during the past year and are marginally higher than the previous year. The introduction of a new customs tariff in March 2014 is expected to exert some inflationary pressure on imported goods, including food products.

Food security conditions expected to be tight in parts of the southwest

In southern parts of the country, particularly the southwest, the anticipated reduction in this year’s cereal harvest is expected to result in a tight food security situation, notably in areas of Namibe. However, in some parts of the south, late seasonal rains have improved conditions for the secondary minor crop, to be harvested in October, which could help to alleviate production shortfalls from the main harvest.