Belgian Delegation on Business Tour in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, June 2, 2025 (ENA)— A 14-member Belgian business delegation is on a four-day visit in Ethiopia to explore investment opportunities across key sectors.

The delegation comprising representatives from 10 companies will engage with Ethiopian government officials and industry leaders to identify promising ventures, it was learned.

 Ethiopia's ongoing economic reforms, including the liberalization of telecommunications and financial services, are creating new avenues for private sector engagement.

 Opening Ethio-Belgium Business Forum this morning, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said "the economic mission from Belgium comes at an opportune time when opportunities and economic reform facilitation for private investment align with Ethiopia's growth and development trajectory." 

 

 Noting the strong trade and investment relationship between Belgium and Ethiopia, he lauded Belgium's support through multilateral institutions like the European Union and various United Nations organizations.

 The minister pointed out that Ethiopia is the region's largest economy and one of Africa's fastest-growing markets, with a significant population base.

 On his part, Industry State Minister Hassan Mohammed said Ethiopia is not simply seeking investors.

 

 ''We are actively seeking long-term partners who share our vision of inclusive, sustainable industrial growth. Ethiopia is open for business and ready for profound transformation with the right partnerships," he stressed.

 The partnership aligns with Ethiopia's 10-Year National Development Plan and the Home-Grown Economy Reform Agenda, focusing on manufacturing and sustainable development.

Belgium's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Annelies Verstichel, outlined the delegation's diverse sectoral interests.

 "The companies represent environment, health, security, solar energy, legal services, food and agriculture, and IT sectors. Their presence reflects Belgium's strong commitment to Ethiopia and our shared vision of fostering mutually beneficial economic partnerships."

 

 She noted that Ethiopia's reforms and industrial park developments have enhanced the investment climate for European investors.

 Encouraging the Belgians to invest in Ethiopia, Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen cited the Belgian saying, "If you don’t dare, you don’t win."

 "I (therefore) strongly invite you to explore opportunities in ICT, cybersecurity, renewable energy, health care, agriculture, manufacturing, and many other sectors prioritized by our government for economic growth."

 He further affirmed Ethiopia's readiness for business.

 

 The forum, organized in collaboration with the Belgium-Luxembourg-Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Chamber of Commerce and Industry, signifies the growing European interest in Ethiopia's liberalizing economy.