Ethiopia’s Bold Macroeconomic Reforms Build Foundation for Better Business Cooperation: Netherlands Ambassador

Addis Ababa, March 12, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s bold macroeconomic reforms have built the foundation for better business cooperation, according to Christine Pirenne, Netherland's Ambassador to Ethiopia.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Pirenne said the government has taken bold steps to have macroeconomic reforms which definitely build the foundation for better business cooperation.

In July 2024, Ethiopia launched a historic, comprehensive macroeconomic reform program, marking a fundamental shift in its economic policy.

The comprehensive macroeconomic reform is aimed at stabilizing macroeconomic imbalances, controlling inflation, and fostering high-quality, private sector-led inclusive growth.

Ethiopia has been implementing the comprehensive macroeconomic reforms that have significantly improved its business environment.

The country, which is one of fastest growing economies in the world, is also experiencing a major economic transformation driven by the Homegrown Economic Reform programs, projected to register 10.2 percent economic growth by the end of the 2025/2026 fiscal year.

Noting that this is a bold direction that facilitates business cooperation between Ethiopia and the Netherlands, the Ambassador stressed the need for strengthening the ongoing endeavors to make sure that the policies are being implemented at all levels in the country.

 

Highlighting the 100 years of trade relationship between the two countries, she added that “doing business and investing in the country is one of our key priorities of our collaboration.”

Ambassador Pirenne also emphasized the cooperation areas between the two countries, including agriculture, water, food and nutrition security and health, alongside trade and investments.

“While the government has taken bold steps to have macroeconomic reforms realized, it definitely builds the foundation for better business cooperation.”

For the Ambassador, the steps will facilitate doing of business between the two countries.

Citing the long-standing relationship between the two countries, she said: “We have been here now for 100 years. I dare to say that we are here to stay. So, I am really looking forward to continuing on those similar lines.”

Ethiopia and the Netherlands are celebrating their nearly 100 years of diplomatic and trade relations with a major focus on strengthening economic ties, particularly in agriculture, horticulture, and sustainable development.

In April 2026, the two countries will mark 100 years since the first trade connection in 1926 which reflects a long tradition of collaboration between the Netherlands and Ethiopia, particularly in trade.

The two countries are experiencing significant growth across multiple sectors, with a particular focus on strengthening economic ties, investment, and development cooperation.

At present, over 100 Dutch companies operate in Ethiopia, driving investment, job creation, and export growth.