Ethiopia’s Business Landscape Draws Tremendous Opportunities for Investors: Chinese Ambassador

Addis Ababa, April 29, 2026 — Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai stated that Ethiopia’s expanding business environment, reinforced by ongoing homegrown economic reforms, is attracting a growing wave of Chinese investors seeking to tap into emerging opportunities.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, the ambassador described Ethiopia and China as partners “on the path together towards modernization,” underscoring that trade, investment and broader economic cooperation remain central to the two countries’ strategic ties.

He further noted that bilateral trade has shown strong momentum in recent years, accompanied by a steady increase in Chinese entrepreneurs and investors entering the Ethiopian market to explore new ventures.

“Ethiopian federal and regional governments are making tremendous efforts and consistently improve the investment and business environment,” the ambassador added.

He pointed to sustained policy reforms and government initiatives aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business, adding that such measures are strengthening investor confidence.

While acknowledging some challenges, he stressed that coordinated efforts by Ethiopia, China and the wider international community will help advance market openness and deepen economic reforms.

The ambassador also identified industrialization, agricultural modernization and human capital development as the three core pillars underpinning China-Ethiopia economic cooperation.

According to him, Ethiopia’s growth trajectory continues to signal strong potential for expanded partnerships.

He further highlighted a notable shift among Chinese investors from a focus on trade toward local manufacturing, a transition he said is contributing more directly to Ethiopia’s economic development.

The ambassador also emphasized the importance of skills development initiatives, citing technical and vocational training programs, including the Luban Workshop in Addis Ababa, as critical to building a capable workforce and sustaining long-term cooperation.

“I’m very confident for the future,” he said, expressing optimism that investment flows and bilateral engagement will continue to deepen in the years ahead.