Luanda: Angolan companies account for approximately 90% of the exhibitors at the 41st edition of the Luanda International Fair (FILDA), reflecting the strengthening of domestic production and an increasing substitution of imported products with goods manufactured within the country. The announcement was made on Tuesday in Luanda by Bruno Albernaz, Chairman of the Board of the Arena Group, during an interview with Angola's Public Television Station, regarding preparations for FILDA. According to Angola Press News Agency, this year's edition, taking place from July 21 to 26, will see growth of over 10 percent compared to the previous edition, surpassing 2,300 participants, up from the 2,190 recorded in 2025. The fair will feature participants from 21 countries-two more than last year-maintaining its status as the premier showcase for the national economy and one of Angola's key business promotion events. The executive highlighted that the major shift at FILDA lies in the predominance of domestic companies, ma ny of which originated from Angolan private investment or from foreign investors who decided to establish production facilities in the country. He explained that while previous editions were dominated by foreign companies focused on selling imported products, the space is now occupied primarily by companies that manufacture goods in Angola. In the industrial sector, approximately 30 percent of exhibitors operate in areas such as food processing, beverages, raw material processing, timber, and other industrial activities, demonstrating the growth of national production capacity. The service and logistics sectors, which previously dominated the fair, now account for approximately 11 and 12 percent of participants, respectively. Bruno Albernaz emphasized that FILDA continues to establish itself as a strategic platform for attracting investment, promoting domestic production, and strengthening trade relations between Angolan and foreign companies. In addition to organizing FILDA, the Arena Group also holds even ts such as the Benguela International Fair (FIB) and Expo Huambo, focusing on hiring local labor, supporting regional suppliers, and training young professionals. The business leader noted that the company currently employs around 250 people, arguing that continuous investment in human capital is a key factor driving the growth of the event organization and business tourism sectors in Angola. This 41st edition of FILDA will feature over 2,300 participants, including both domestic and international entities. The Luanda International Fair is Angola's largest business marketplace and one of the region's leading platforms for economic promotion. With a history spanning over 40 years, FILDA has kept pace with the evolution of the Angolan business landscape, establishing itself as a premier meeting point for companies, investors, institutions, and decision-makers. It is a space where partnerships are forged, opportunities are explored, and the country's economic development is driven forward. More than just a tr ade fair, FILDA is a strategic platform that promotes the value of national resources, economic diversification, and the strengthening of domestic production. By integrating innovation, culture, and sustainability, it contributes to building an economy that is more resilient, competitive, and inclusive. According to the organizers, the 2026 edition is envisioned as a milestone of continuity and vision, positioning FILDA as a convergence point for production, innovation, and internationalization-a space where Angola asserts itself to the world with confidence and ambition.
