USDA led an agribusiness trade mission to Luanda, Angola, in late February in hopes of developing the export market.
The Kansas and Wisconsin departments of agriculture and 16 U.S. companies and organizations sent representatives alongside Deputy Ag Secretary Xochitl Torres Small.
Jena Gress, manager of global marketing for the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council, was one of those individuals. She answered some questions about the trip and experience.
Question: What is the current poultry trade capacity between the U.S. and Angola?
Answer: Angola is a crucial market for U.S. poultry. In 2023, they were the fifth-largest global importer of U.S. chicken leg quarters, with over 104,000 metric tons valued at $114 million.
This highlights the significant demand for U.S. poultry in Angola, where domestic production meets only a small portion of consumption.
However, it’s important to note that U.S. exports have declined from historical highs. Previously, Angola ranked as our second- or third-largest global export market, with record volumes reaching 209,200 metric tons in 2018.
This decline is attributed to economic factors in Angola and higher U.S. poultry prices.
Q: Is there a desire to increase that amount?
A: Absolutely. The U.S. is committed to maintaining or even growing its market share in Angola. This vibrant market presents a valuable opportunity.
However, we face growing competition from Brazil, which offers similar products at competitive prices.
Despite these challenges, the U.S. sees potential for growth.
Angolan consumers have a strong preference for dark meat, which the domestic industry struggles to produce in sufficient quantities. It is estimated that the domestic industry cannot even supply 5% of the demand.
This creates a niche where U.S. chicken leg quarters can excel.
We are working with USDA to ensure U.S. poultry remains a competitive and preferred choice for Angolan consumers.
Q: What did you do on the trip?
A: The week-long agribusiness trade mission led by Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small brought together 40 U.S. representatives from various sectors of agriculture, including USAPEEC members, state agriculture representatives and agribusinesses. The mission focused on learning about opportunities and challenges in the Angolan market.
These activities included meetings with Angolan government officials and local business leaders, gaining firsthand experience through tours of cold storage facilities and retail stores showcasing American products and participating in a press conference highlighting the opening of the Angolan market to U.S. poultry and livestock genetics.
Additionally, the USDA facilitated crucial one-on-one business meetings between U.S. agribusiness delegates and local Angolan businesses and importers, fostering potential trade partnerships.
Q: What did you learn? What are the trip’s key takeaways?
A: The biggest takeaway for me was learning about Angola’s commitment to infrastructure improvements, particularly along the Lobito Corridor. This will enhance regional trade and reduce transportation costs, potentially benefiting U.S. poultry exports.
Another key takeaway was Angola’s focus on diversifying their economy, with investments in agriculture being a priority. This creates promising opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports, including poultry.
Q: Are there any concrete plans for change based off this trip?
A: The trip solidified the importance of the Angolan market for U.S. poultry.
Leveraging this renewed focus, we’re looking to capitalize on USDA’s recent announcement of the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program. These potential funds could be used to develop programs specifically aimed at expanding U.S. poultry brands in Angola.
These programs might include various marketing activities designed to increase awareness and demand for U.S. poultry among Angolan consumers. Ultimately, we’re committed to collaborating with USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service to ensure continued access and growth opportunities for U.S. poultry exporters in Angola.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
A: USDA trade missions provide invaluable opportunities to connect with industry partners and explore market potential.
We are committed to supporting U.S. poultry exports to Angola and ensuring this vital food source remains accessible to Angolan consumers. We look forward to similar opportunities in the future.
