Can you provide an overview of BRIMONT and elaborate on its involvement in the energy industry?

BRIMONT, founded with a vision to serve the oil and gas sector, has diversified into a multi-service company encompassing the provision of procurement services and strategic supply, HR solutions, real estate, and industrial production. Our services specialize in offering tailored solutions for companies operating in Angola's oil and gas sector, covering aspects from regulatory compliance to operational logistics. Our journey began with a keen understanding of the Angolan market's nuances and a commitment to addressing diverse needs, including adhering to local etiquette.

One of our pivotal roles revolves around procurement services, where we ensure seamless operations by supplying everything from necessities to emergency supplies. Our evolution has seen us become the largest producer of sodium hypochlorite in Angola, fulfilling environmental requirements within the industry. This hard achievement is a result of resilient growth based on consistent investment in our Angolan workforce and adherence to local content laws. We aim to expand chemical manufacturing and supply, catering to both domestic and international clients, as well as the major oil and gas operators in the region.

Furthermore, our expertise extends to specialized services in chemical applications, such as injection and corrosion management, bolstering asset integrity within the energy sector. Essentially, BRIMONT serves as a strategic professional services partner, leveraging our clients’ operations through a comprehensive knowledge of the Angolan market to source and supply a diverse array of products and services efficiently.

While international companies often bring their own suppliers, we endeavor to secure our position in the market. Despite the challenges, our expertise gained from working with international firms enables us to effectively manage various aspects, ranging from procurement to local industries. Additionally, our expertise extends to providing specialized services, such as setting up remote accommodations for mining expeditions. Within a few days, we can transform barren sites into fully equipped facilities, demonstrating our adaptability in supporting Angola's energy sector.

What are the main challenges indigenous companies like BRIMONT face in Angola?

Indigenous companies like BRIMONT face multiple challenges, particularly concerning financial viability and operational sustainability. One significant hurdle is the requirement for prepayment by overseas suppliers coupled with client demands for extended credit terms, averaging officially 30-45 days, but often spanning 90-180 days. This places considerable strain on our financial capabilities, especially in an environment marked by very high inflation and high interest rates. Additionally, the prevalence of international contractors in Angola further complicates matters, as they often benefit from financial instruments and frameworks that provide them with a competitive advantage over local companies like ours.

What are the main criteria that IOCs prioritize when doing business with Angolan companies? 

Efficiency is key for IOCs. Local Content, which is a concept not exclusive to Angola, also plays an important role. The bottom line is that IOCs look for partners who can effectively execute tasks while attending to their strategic goals.

Where do you see the most opportunity for BRIMONT and other service providers in Angola's energy sector?

The most opportunity lies in major projects that are effectively planned for Angola's development, particularly in oil and gas where developing and controlling the full scale of the industry is a must. 

While there are investments coming, the success of these projects may take time due to the level of investment required and the impact of energy transition paradigms. Angola's commitment to net zero and renewable energy is evident, yet the exploration of oil and gas resources remains essential. BRIMONT aims to leverage its experience to support these areas, as well as mining, where Angola holds viability in over 30 of the more critical minerals in the world. Additionally, Angola's strategic geographic location positions it as a logistical hub, offering opportunities for growth and value addition. Our focus is on expanding our capabilities and contributing to the development of Angola's energy sector.