Angola and China Enhance Collaboration on Mineral Processing Strategies

Luanda:The Angola Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Gas, Oil, and Minerals (CCIGPMA) and China's Sichuan Geological Survey Institute collaborated on Tuesday to refine strategies aimed at enhancing the processing of strategic mineral resources, including copper and rare earths, within Angola. According to Angola Press News Agency, this initiative seeks to strengthen the partnership between the two entities, focusing on modernizing Angola's mining sector, creating skilled jobs, and fostering sustainable development. The meeting identified new areas for cooperation and laid the groundwork for potential bilateral agreements involving Chinese institutions, mining companies, and Angolan academic bodies, such as Agostinho Neto University (UAN). The proposed protocols include project financing, offtake and international marketing agreements, high-precision geological services, and technology transfer. There are also plans for technical capacity-building, training, and scientific exchange programs for Angolan st udents and professionals. The progress in Angola's large-scale mining projects, such as the Longonjo rare earth project in Huambo, operated by Ozango Minerais with the Angolan Sovereign Wealth Fund's participation, was highlighted in the document. This project focuses on extracting critical oxides and magnetic metals integrated into the Lobito Corridor logistics network. Additionally, the Tetelo Copper Mine has reported over 725,000 tons of extracted ore, with a goal of achieving a daily processing capacity of 13,200 tons and creating more than 3,600 jobs by 2030. CCIGPMA emphasized its role as a mediator between the international business community and Angola's educational and exploration institutions, aiming to consolidate economic sovereignty and promote national industrialization. The meeting was presided over by CCIGPMA President Isabel Fonseca and Jiang Jun, Director-General of the Sichuan Geological Survey Institute. The Sichuan Geological Survey Institute is renowned for its expertise in geophysic al and geochemical research, advanced regional mapping, and sustainable mining technologies.