FoodCare makes history with Angola’s first food product exports to United States
ANGOLA –Angolan food processing company Food Care has successfully exported 23 tonnes of food products to the United States, marking the country’s first food exports to the U.S.
The shipment consisted of various food products, including 23-kilogram bags of cassava flour, cornflower, catatos, cooked cassava leaves, mushrooms, and peanut butter, made possible through the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
AGOA, a trade initiative, grants eligible sub-Saharan African nations duty-free access to the U.S. market for more than 1,800 agricultural products.
This groundbreaking export demonstrated the tangible benefits of AGOA and is the result of a partnership between Food Care and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
Mary Emma Arnold, the United States Deputy Chief of Mission in Angola, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative.
She emphasized that the U.S. government, through USAID, is actively supporting countries in southern Africa to leverage AGOA’s opportunities.
“The regional program, valued at US$31 million, offers financial, technical, and business support to African companies like Food Care to help them access the U.S. market,” she noted.
Arnold highlighted that trade between Angola and the United States had traditionally centered on commodities such as crude oil, diamonds, and gas.
“The diversification of the economy through agricultural trade represents a promising avenue for growth.”
Eunice Pedro, Head of Production at Food Care, assured that all exported agricultural products meet rigorous hygiene standards and adhere to food safety procedures. The company places great emphasis on quality control and safety.
Food Care’s founder, Marlene José, established the company in 2019 with a focus on domestic operations.
The staff has since undergone extensive training to prepare for international food exports.
They have acquired knowledge about best practices, recommendations, and the stringent standards required for processing food products destined for international markets, particularly the United States.
According to Marlene this landmark export signified a significant step forward for Angola’s agricultural industry and its economic diversification efforts.
It also underscored the potential of AGOA in fostering trade relations between African nations and the United States, providing opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation.
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