Colombia Seeks to Boost Business Ties with Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, August 27, 2025 (ENA)- Colombia is making a concerted effort to strengthen its economic and commercial relationships with African nations, with a particular focus on Ethiopia, Ambassador Yeisom Arcodia Meneses Copete told ENA.

According to him, the high-level business roundtable held in Addis Ababa yesterday would be a pivotal step in expanding trade and investment between the two countries.

The visit of a Colombian trade delegation, which included representatives from various sectors, is part of a broader "Colombia-Africa strategy" aimed at fostering deeper diplomatic and commercial relations.

Colombia's Ambassador to Ethiopia Copete added that the recent opening of the Colombian Embassy in Addis Ababa is a key element of this initiative.

"The Colombian government is trying to foster the ties with African countries,  with a particular focus on Ethiopia," he stated.

The business roundtable was designed to "facilitate the interactions between the private sector of both countries," with the goal of achieving tangible results in a short period.

The Colombian delegation included two vice ministers and directors from key institutions like the Drug and Food Authority.

The Ambassador noted that these meetings are crucial for establishing the necessary legal framework to promote bilateral trade and investment.

The Colombian business leaders represent a diverse range of sectors, including agricultural technology, mining, manufacturing, nutrition, and the cultural industry, it was learned.

These areas of interest align well with Ethiopia's economic landscape, creating a strong foundation for collaboration, according to Ambassador Copete.

"Our purpose with this meeting is trying to grow together and encourage market and trade," he said, underscoring Colombia’s commitment to building a more robust and productive economic partnership with Ethiopia.

With about 130 million people, Ethiopia is the second most populous nation in Africa after Nigeria, and one of the fastest-growing economies in the region, with an estimated 8.1 percent growth in FY2023/24.