The last summit of the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), held on 17-18 July in the island of Sal in Cabo Verde, took place in an overall orderly manner. This was a relief for government and diplomatic circles, especially in Portugal, that will host the organization in 2019-2020.

Foreign exchange operations to settle merchandise imports and exports in Angola will have new rules starting on 15 September, revoking some obligations required until now.

The three most important Portuguese-speaking countries represented at the Forum Macao – Brazil, Angola and Portugal – seem to finally be interested in participating more extensively in the institution.

Under Trump’s direction, Washington has drawn up a list of more than 1,000 Chinese products on which tariffs could be imposed. Beijing has responded by threatening its own sanctions, headlined by a 25% tariff on US soya beans.

The Forum Macao will visit all the Portuguese-speaking countries in 2018 to increase the respective countries's participation and understanding of the organisation.

With an eye to the future, Forum Macao is preparing to analyse the work carried out since it was founded in 2003, the aim being to take on a more dynamic and active role.