Ethiopia Connects Major Markets, Creating Favorable Business Climate: Deputy PM

Addis Ababa, March 26, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia, with its strategic location, is connecting major markets as its comprehensive economic reform is creating a favorable business climate and enhancing competitiveness, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said.

The 4th Invest in Ethiopia High-Level Business Forum 2026, themed “Ethiopia Ready for Business,” is taking place in Addis Ababa, aiming to drive investment, exports, and economic transformation.

Opening the two-day forum today, Deputy PM Temesgen said Invest in Ethiopia is a platform that connects vision with action, noting, “this gathering is more than a forum it is a moment to strengthen partnerships and take decisive steps toward a future of shared prosperity.”

According to the Deputy PM, Ethiopia's comprehensive, deep, and deliberate reform is creating a favorable business climate for the private sector, noting the significance of enhancing competitiveness at the global level.

Ethiopia, with its strategic location, is connecting major markets, he said, adding that its young, energetic population and largest dynamic workforce, alongside its comprehensive reform measures, are positioning the country as a key destination for attracting major FDIs.

The Deputy PM also particularly described the realization of GERD as a defining moment and a testament to delivering on long-term vision, which is key for industrial transformation, emphasizing, “Landmark achievements such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam reflect our capacity to deliver on bold visions.”

Stating that Ethiopia understands the significance of global competitiveness, he said the country welcomes competition as it drives progress in all spheres.

Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide, on his part, affirmed that the ambition is to position Ethiopia among the leading investment destinations globally.

Noting that the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda puts the private sector at the center, he said the reform has achieved tangible results, including macroeconomic stability, a conducive business climate, an FDI surge, and simplified business regulations, among others.

The country is also undertaking massive endeavors to enhance economic integration and expand market access using various platforms, he underscored.

Addressing the occasion, Italy’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi, for her part, commended Ethiopia's efforts in creating a stable and competitive business environment.

She also affirmed the readiness and commitment of Italy to consolidate Italian presence in Ethiopia in various spheres.

“Invest in Ethiopia” is an annual high-level business forum organized by the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and development partners, aimed at positioning Ethiopia as a leading investment hub in Africa and beyond and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).