Made in Ethiopia’ Expo to Draw 150,000 Visitors, Target Over 5 Billion Birr in Deals

Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 —Ethiopia’s drive to strengthen its manufacturing sector is gaining momentum, with the government positioning the upcoming 4th Made in Ethiopia Expo as a flagship platform for industrial growth, trade expansion, and innovation.

Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said the “Made in Ethiopia” initiative is already improving the competitiveness of local manufacturers by boosting productivity.

According to him, the initiative is also addressing structural bottlenecks, and expanding market access through coordinated policy support and targeted interventions.

Set for May 3–8, 2026, at the Addis International Convention Center, the expo will be held under the theme “Made in Ethiopia for Multifaceted Sovereignty.”

The government expects the event to attract more than 150,000 local and international visitors, bringing together manufacturers, investors, policymakers, and innovators in a large-scale showcase of Ethiopia’s industrial capacity.

Officials project that the expo could generate over 850 trade agreements worth more than 5 billion birr, highlighting its role as both a commercial hub and a policy-driven platform for industrial expansion.

The event is designed not only to promote Ethiopian-made goods but also to accelerate innovation, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing across sectors.

Startups will have dedicated space to connect with established firms, potentially scaling their ideas into commercial ventures.

Beyond exhibitions, the program will include panel discussions, product development competitions, and recognition awards aimed at strengthening Ethiopia’s broader industrial ecosystem. Authorities also say the initiative is aligned with national efforts to reinforce food sovereignty through stronger agro-industrial linkages.

At its core, the expo reflects a broader push to reposition Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector as a driver of economic transformation and global competitiveness.