Shipping to and from Angola

Limark in Angola

Connecting Angola across Africa and beyond

Providing seamless connections for Angolan businesses across Africa, we’ve been the bridge to success since our inception.

Whether it’s standard, refrigerated, or oversized cargo, our local expertise and extensive network ensure timely delivery to and from Angola. Our dedicated team handles diverse cargo types, providing tailored solutions for your shipping needs.

With regular main line and feeder vessels serving all major ports in Angola, including ports of Luanda, Lobito, and Namibe, we’re your gateway to seamless connections throughout the continent. From Angola to anywhere in Africa, your cargo is in trusted hands.

Angola import regulations and licensing requirements

Importing goods to Angola requires navigating specific procedures and documentation. Here’s a breakdown of the essential requirements:

Regulations and licensing requirements

General import licensing

Most goods entering Angola require an import license to ensure compliance with local standards and regulations. Import licenses are obtained from the Ministry of Commerce. Specific items may require additional permits from relevant ministries:

Food and beverages: Ministry of Health for safety standards
Electronics and machinery: National Institute of Standardization and Quality
Pharmaceuticals: Ministry of Health for approval of drugs and medical products

Registration and importer eligibility

All importers must be registered with the Angola Customs Office and possess a valid tax identification number (NIF). Proof of registration and fiscal compliance is necessary for customs clearance.

Restricted/prohibited goods for import

Certain goods are either restricted or completely prohibited from being imported into Angola:

Prohibited items: Narcotics, endangered species without CITES permit, counterfeit goods, and arms and ammunition (except under special government permits)
Restricted items: Used vehicles over five years old, certain pharmaceuticals, and genetically modified organisms. These items require special approval and additional documentation before importation.

Port and terminal information

Port of Luanda: The primary gateway for imports entering Angola, handling the majority of container and bulk cargo
Port of Lobito: Serves as a crucial point for imports destined for southern Angola and neighboring countries

Terminal operations

Operating hours: Typically from 08:00 to 17:00, Monday through Friday
Facilities: Both ports are equipped with modern facilities to handle various types of cargo including bulk, containerized, and break-bulk

Container handling procedures

Demurrage and detention

Demurrage: Charges apply after a container remains at the port beyond the free period, typically 5-7 days after unloading
Detention: Charges incurred when containers are taken out of the port but not returned within the allotted free time

Container Drop-offs

Designated areas: Containers should be returned to specified depots as directed by the shipping line or port authority

Required documentation

For successful customs clearance, the following documents are required

Bill of lading: Issued by the carrier, detailing the goods shipped, origin, destination, and consignee
Commercial invoice: Provides value, description, and quantity of the goods for customs valuation
Packing list: Details about the packaging of the shipped goods
Import license: For goods that require specific government approval

Customs clearance processes

Steps for clearance

Documentation review: Customs officials will review all required documents to ensure completeness and compliance
Inspection and verification: Goods may be inspected to verify contents and compliance with Angolan standards
Duty payment: Import duties and taxes must be calculated and paid before release of goods

Import duties, taxes, and other fees

Value-added tax (VAT): Generally set at 14% on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) of the goods
Customs duties: Vary based on the classification of goods under the Harmonized System (HS) codes
Other fees: May include processing fees, inspection fees, and additional levies depending on the nature of the imported goods

Angola export regulations and restrictions

Get a detailed guide that provides an in-depth look into every aspect of the export process to ensure your goods are shipped efficiently and in compliance with all legal standards.

Export regulations and restrictions

Overview of licensing requirements

Specific products require export licenses or permits issued by the appropriate Angolan ministries:

Mineral exports

Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas: Mandatory licensing for exporting oil, diamonds, and other valuable minerals
Diamonds: Must comply with the Kimberley Process. Exporters need a Kimberley Certificate, obtainable from the Ministry

Agricultural products

Ministry of Agriculture: Licenses for exporting coffee, sugar, and bananas are essential. These ensure compliance with global agricultural trade standards

Wildlife and forest products

Ministry of Environment: Necessary for products derived from flora and fauna, focusing on sustainability and legal trade.

Prohibited or restricted goods for export

Weapons and ammunition: Export strictly controlled by the Ministry of Defense. Export permits are rare and only issued under specific circumstances
Endangered species products: Such as ivory, banned under international law (CITES regulations)
Unprocessed minerals: Export of unprocessed minerals like rough diamonds is restricted, requiring certification and clearances

Customs and documentation requirements

Key documents required

Commercial invoice: Must include full seller and buyer information, detailed description, quantity, and price of goods
Packing list: Should match the details on the commercial invoice, providing weight and packaging details
Bill of lading: Necessary for sea freight—must be obtained from the shipping company post-loading
Export declaration: Must be filed electronically via the SIEX system prior to shipment

Export declaration process

SIEX system: Exporters must register with the SIEX system, providing a comprehensive declaration of goods
Processing time: Declarations should be submitted at least 48 hours before cargo is due at the terminal to ensure timely processing

Export certificates

Certificate of Origin: Issued by the Angola Chamber of Commerce, required for most destinations to verify the goods’ origin
Phytosanitary certificates: Necessary for plant-based products, obtainable from the Ministry of Agriculture, ensuring goods are free of pests and diseases

Terminal/port operations

Key ports and their specifications

Port of Luanda: Main export hub with cargo cut-off times typically 72 hours before vessel departure
Port of Lobito: Focus on exports to southern Africa; cargo cut-off is generally 48 hours before departure
Port of Soyo: Specializes in liquid bulk (oil); cut-off times can vary based on the shipping schedule

Container handling and storage

Free storage period: Typically 7 days for exports. Beyond this, daily storage fees apply depending on container size and port regulations

Cargo handling and fees

Returning empty containers

Designated depots: Specified by the shipping line upon cargo unloading
Late return penalties: Charges accrue per container per day beyond the stipulated return period

Export charges

Duties and taxes: Vary by product and destination. It’s essential to check with a customs broker to understand specific tariffs
Handling charges: Ports charge for various services, including container handling and documentation processing

Expertise You Can Trust

Navigate Angola’s import/export complexities with ease

Reduce border complexities with our comprehensive logistics solutions. Our expert team and advanced technology platforms streamline Angolan import and export regulations, ensuring seamless documentation and compliance.

Whether you’re a seasoned trader or new to the Angola market, our tailored logistics solutions and personalized support guarantee the timely delivery of your goods with ease.

Partner with us today and leverage our strategically located carriers and teams across Angola’s major ports like Luanda, Lobito, and Soyo. Get the real-time guidance you need to navigate bureaucratic and regulatory challenges.

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Partner with experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers for seamless shipping to and from Angola. Ensure full documentation compliance with the guidance and logistics services of our team.