Economic Reforms Position Ethiopia as Emerging Investment Hub, Says Minister Kassahun

Addis Ababa, March 16, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Kassahun Gofe underscored that the country is rapidly emerging as an attractive destination for investors as sweeping economic reforms continue to reshape the business environment.

Speaking at a panel discussion titled “Ethiopia: The New Investment Destination,” organized by the Ethiopian News Agency in collaboration with the Ethiopian Investment Commission, the minister highlighted the government’s efforts to expand investment opportunities and strengthen private sector participation.

 

Kassahun emphasized that investment plays a critical role in accelerating Ethiopia’s economic transformation.

 According to him, the government has implemented a series of reforms aimed at improving the investment climate, including opening key sectors to foreign investors, expanding the role of private businesses, and introducing various incentives to attract both local and international investment.

The minister also underscored the importance of Ethiopian Airlines—Africa’s largest airline, in supporting the country’s investment and trade ambitions by improving global connectivity.

In addition, he noted that the creation of the Ethiopian Securities Exchange marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s financial sector development, helping position the country as one of Africa’s emerging economic powerhouses.

Kassahun further stressed the crucial role of the media in promoting Ethiopia’s investment potential and communicating the progress achieved through ongoing economic reforms.

 

He explained that investment is especially vital for developing economies like Ethiopia, as it facilitates technology transfer, promotes modern work practices, and creates new economic opportunities.

Ethiopia’s participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area is also opening new doors for investors by expanding access to a continental market. The government is currently working to implement the investment protocol under the agreement to further enhance these opportunities.

The minister added that Ethiopia’s continued commitment to joining the World Trade Organization demonstrates its determination to deepen integration with the global economy and strengthen its investment environment.

On his part, Ethiopian Investment Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen indicated that Ethiopia attracted 4 billion USD in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024, representing a 22.7 percent increase compared to 2023.

 

The figures place Ethiopia as the leading FDI destination in East Africa and the second largest in Africa, he noted.

Meanwhile, Seife Derbe, Chief Executive Officer of the Ethiopian News Agency, highlighted the agency’s role in promoting the country’s development efforts and investment opportunities.

 

He said the panel discussion provides an important platform to showcase Ethiopia’s economic progress and the work being undertaken to expand the investment sector.

According to Seife, such forums help strengthen collaboration across development sectors, support economic integration, and contribute to building a resilient and independent national economy.

He also affirmed that the Ethiopian News Agency will continue working closely with relevant institutions to disseminate timely and accurate information on Ethiopia’s economic reforms and investment potential.

The discussion brought together government officials, experts, and stakeholders to examine both opportunities and challenges in advancing Ethiopia’s investment sector.