National Manufacturing Industry Council Conducts Review of Special Economic Zones

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (ENA) -- The National Manufacturing Industry Council, led by Ambassador Girma Birru conducted field visits to several special economic zones (SEZ) to assess the current state of the manufacturing sector.

The high-level delegation included Prime Minister's Macroeconomic Advisor and Chairman of the council, Ambassador Girma Birru, along with Minister of Industry Melaku Alebel, Minister of Agriculture Addisu Arega, President of the Ethiopian Development Bank, Emebet Melesse ,CEO of the Industrial Parks Development Corporation, Fisseha Yitagesu , and other senior officials from member institutions of the council.

The primary objective of the field visit was to evaluate the existing conditions of the manufacturing industries and provide a coordinated response to the challenges they face, according to State Minister of Industry Tarekegn Bululta.

The visit is aimed at finding practical solutions to issues related to finance, infrastructure, raw materials, and operational systems to boost production and productivity.

 

The council members began their tour at the Bole Lemi and Kilinto special economic zones. During the visit, they received briefings on the overall operations of the zones, including the opportunities available, the challenges being encountered, and the measures being taken to address them.

Officials from the Bole Lemi and Kilinto special economic zones explained that investors are being supported to design and construct their own workspaces to enable them  begin operations quickly.

They also noted that expansion projects are underway to enhance product diversity, and essential infrastructure is being provided to attract more investors into production.

The officials stated the council's assistance in resolving challenges related to water and electricity supply.

The National Manufacturing Industry Council will continue its field visits to various other special economic zones across the country.