Doing business in Mozambique

The business environment in Mozambique is quite traditional. Upper management is usually responsible for final decisions and plans. Nonetheless, communication from one tier of the hierarchy to another is common too.

Mozambicans are typically hard-working and motivated. Workplace culture tends to be welcoming and respectful, helping you settle in more easily.

Fast facts

Business hours

Monday to Friday, from 8am to 5pm.

Business language

Portuguese, though many educated Mozambicans speak English. In some cases, it may be necessary to hire a translator.

Greetings

Both men and women typically greet with a handshake. Men commonly use both hands when greeting someone. It's important to address others by their professional title. If someone's title isn’t known, address men as Senhor (Mr) and women as Senhora (Mrs/Ms). 

Dress

The dress code varies in different industries, but it’s often best to dress more formally than too casually until you have a better idea of how others dress. For men, a lightweight suit and tie are appropriate for most workplaces. Women can wear suits too, though a blazer with a dress of an appropriate length is also an option.

Gender equality

Men generally dominate the workplace in Mozambique, but this is slowly changing with the introduction of gender equality measures. More women tend to work in urban areas, though many still stay at home and take care of the family. Women’s roles get more traditional the further away you go from metropolitan areas.

Business culture in Mozambique

A sense of respect for seniority characterises business culture in Mozambique. Mozambicans tend to avoid confrontation and conflict. People are usually wary of offending others, so true feelings may not always be spoken. Mozambicans are also very relationship-oriented. If you make a real effort to get to know your associates, it will reflect positively on you.

Mozambican culture places less emphasis on timeliness and more on relationships, which can be frustrating for expats. Expats should always arrive on time themselves, but should not express impatience if others are late.

Communication

Mozambicans tend to communicate more indirectly and prefer to avoid conflicts and confrontation. It is considered more polite to accept an invitation and not show up than to decline. Generally speaking, an arm's length of personal space is appropriate during conversations.

The pace of decision-making in Mozambique can sometimes be slow. You should be prepared for back-and-forth negotiations. It's best not to appear over-eager to make a deal, as this may get in the way of negotiating for a better position.

Meetings

When having a meeting in Mozambique, you shouldn’t rush into discussing business. Small talk always precedes formal conversations. It is appropriate to inquire about a colleague’s health, family, and other social matters before dealing with business. 

The person who initiated the meeting should be the first one to start the actual business conversation, while the most senior person typically ends the discussion.

Attitude towards foreigners

Mozambique is a large and diverse country. In addition to the many indigenous groups, the country has received waves of colonists, immigrants, and migrant workers over the years. The population consists of people from many cultural, religious, economic, and geographical backgrounds, which means that expats don’t stand out too much.

Generally speaking, Mozambicans are respectful of foreigners and perceive them as experienced and educated.

Dos and don'ts of business in Mozambique

• Don't expect your Mozambican colleagues to be on time, but do arrive on time yourself.
• Do be aware that January is the main holiday month, so business trips shouldn't be scheduled then.
• Do give and receive business cards with your right hand.
• Don't be afraid of building good relationships with colleagues.