Maputo, Aug. 31, 2026 (Lusa) - The Mozambican President promised today to press ahead with reforms to eliminate complications and improve the business environment in the country, and argued that only by increasing domestic production and reducing imports will the foreign exchange problem be resolved.
«It is our task, and we are continuing to work day and night to eliminate the red tape. We are aware of one fundamental fact: sustainable investment thrives on trust, and trust flourishes through predictability, transparency and results,» said Daniel Chapo.
The president of Mozambique was speaking at the opening of the 61st Maputo International Fair (Facim), which is taking place in Maputo Province, southern Mozambique, where he once again reiterated the country's openness to domestic and foreign investment, with a particular focus on innovation and strategic partnerships.
He promised that Mozambique would continue to press ahead with far-reaching reforms to revitalise and streamline the business environment, noting that the government had established the Office for Reforms and Strategic Projects within the Presidency of the Republic with the aim of continuing to pass legislation, particularly laws that «facilitate the country's growth and a favourable business environment».
«To our friendly and sister nations, and to the foreign investors present here, we wish to reiterate that Mozambique is committed to reform in order to attract more investment, create a favourable business environment and develop our country,» promised Chapo.
In praising the companies honoured for standing out as the country's largest and best exporters, the Mozambican President noted that the country still faced a foreign exchange challenge, emphasising that this can be resolved through domestic production.
«We will have foreign exchange when we produce more and export more. When we produce more, import less, and export more, there will be more foreign exchange. That is why your achievements demonstrate that exporting is not just about selling abroad. It is about proving to the world that Mozambique knows how to produce, knows how to compete and knows how to succeed,» he declared.
In this regard, he added that the country would continue to prioritise production to boost exports, at a time when Mozambique aims to improve its balance of payments, and stated that «no economy transforms itself solely through the will of businesspeople», as joint efforts are required.
Chapo wants the state to fulfil its role as the guarantor of conditions for a healthy business environment so that jobs can be created, particularly for young people.
«Therefore, as the government of Mozambique, we have the privilege of leading the way; we are simplifying administrative procedures, digitising public services, reducing costs, enhancing regulatory predictability and creating conditions so that investing in Mozambique becomes increasingly simpler, more transparent, more predictable and more competitive,» he explained, referring to reforms already underway to ensure a healthy business environment.
The 61st edition of Facim takes place from today until 5 September at the Ricatla International Trade Fair and Exhibition Centre, in the district of Marracuene, Maputo province. Regarded as Mozambique's leading business showcase, this year's edition has the theme «Digital and energy transformation for a sustainable economy».
The organisers expect nearly 3,000 exhibitors from 29 countries, including around 600 foreign companies and 2,300 domestic exhibitors, and also anticipate welcoming around 55,000 visitors over the six days of the event. Brazil is participating as the guest of honour.
In addition to the exhibition spaces, FACIM features an agricultural show, sector-specific and institutional pavilions, and various initiatives to promote Mozambican exports. The programme also includes business forums and thematic seminars to strengthen partnerships and investment opportunities, notably the Mozambique–China, Mozambique–Brazil and Mozambique–United Arab Emirates forums.
Portugal is participating with over 100 Portuguese-owned companies, around 20 of which have their own exhibition stands.
In parallel, the Portugal-Mozambique Business Forum 2026 will take place on 1 September. According to official figures, around 500 companies with Portuguese capital operate in Mozambique and over 1,100 Portuguese exporting companies are active in this market.
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