By 
LUANDA — South African businesses are making significant inroads into the Angolan market, reporting promising trade leads at the ongoing Feira International De Angola (FILDA) trade show. Held in Luanda from July 21–26, 2026, the continent’s major multi-sector exhibition has become a key launchpad for local firms backed by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic).
The South African delegation represents a strong mix of high-value industrial sectors, including agro-processing, steel and metal fabrication, engineering and mining, and chemicals. As trade activity picks up speed across the region, South African firms are looking to cement their presence in sub-Saharan Africa’s fast-growing economies.
Expanding Horizons in Commercial Infrastructure
Among the companies capturing early momentum is Cubicle Solutions, a leading manufacturer specializing in complete changing room solutions, toilet and shower cubicles, lockers, and benches for commercial facilities such as gyms, shopping malls, and hospitals.
Having already successfully exported across the continent—including to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Ghana, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Botswana—the company is now turning its sights to Angola.
“This is a significant opportunity to expand our offerings, and we are excited about bringing our products and solutions to the Angolan market and other markets across Africa,” said Ms Sue Lammas, CEO of Cubicle Solutions. “We are already receiving a strong response, including enquiries from government regarding potential projects, and we look forward to the remainder of the exhibition.”
Similarly, Getzz Projects Engineering has reported enthusiastic engagement from both regional and international players. Managing Director Mr Eldridge Hendricks noted strong early traction from local clients in Luanda as well as visiting delegates from Portugal, calling the event one of the best exhibitions the firm has attended.
Sustainable Tech and Mining Sector Engagement
Innovation in building technology is also taking centre stage. Hydraform, a manufacturer of hydraulic compression machines that produce eco-friendly interlocking building blocks using local soil mixed with a small percentage of cement, is utilizing FILDA to scale its footprint. By eliminating the need for mortar between blocks, the technology offers cost-effective, efficient construction solutions ideal for housing and infrastructure projects.
Having previously supplied non-governmental organizations, government bodies, and local entrepreneurs in Angola, Hydraform is now strategically targeting property developers and Angola’s extensive mining sector.
According to Ms Aphelele Kali, Sales Engineer at Hydraform, interest has been robust.
“Since the exhibition opened, we have received strong interest, including from an existing client who is looking to upgrade to a higher-production plant for a school construction project,” Kali reported.
High Stakes in the Region’s Largest Multi-Sector Platform
The commercial stakes at FILDA are substantial. Recognized as Angola’s premier international business platform, the exhibition continues to grow in global stature. By way of comparison, the 2025 edition drew roughly 1,800 companies from 18 countries, generating over $60 million in business volume.
For South African exporters, the support from the dtic at events like FILDA provides crucial exposure, enabling local manufacturers to scale operations, build cross-border partnerships, and capture a larger share of intra-African trade.
