A CONSTITUIÇÃO ECONÓMICA DE ANGOLA: Desafios e Perspectivas na Promoção da Livre Iniciativa e no Combate à Concorrência Desleal

Abstract

This article presents a critical analysis of the Economic Constitution of Angola, established in 2010, through a qualitative critical-hermeneutic paradigm grounded in legal and interdisciplinary methods. The Constitution outlines pillars such as free enterprise, fair competition, and the State’s role in promoting social justice. However, its implementation faces obstacles due to a socioeconomic reality marked by informality, institutional fragility, and limited competitive culture. Studies indicate that around 80% of Angolan economic agents operate outside the formal sector, causing market distortions, tax evasion, and imbalance in applying constitutional principles. The research applies Reale’s tridimensional legal method: fact (informality, anti-competitive practices), value (justice, solidarity), and norm. The study incorporates methodological triangulation, Mill’s comparative method, and Santos’ ecology of knowledge, broadening the scope and highlighting social practices often ignored. Findings show that although the Constitution is based on universal principles, it is hindered by weak policies and limited oversight capacity. Informal trade, like street vending, serves as survival yet fosters unfair competition. Regulated sectors, such as telecommunications, face monopolies and barriers to entry, increasing inequality. Compared to other African countries, Angola shows reduced regulatory institutional strength. To address these challenges, the article proposes periodic legislative review with multisectoral input, strengthening the Competition Authority’s autonomy, promoting economic and legal literacy, and integrating formal and informal knowledge systems. The Constitution’s effectiveness depends on genuine dialogue between legal norms and social reality, supporting inclusive development and competitive justice.