Ethiopia, United States Explore Stronger Trade and Investment Cooperation

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic and commercial cooperation as senior officials held talks focused on advancing investment, expanding bilateral trade, and strengthening private sector partnerships.

Ethiopia's Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, met today with Mark Mitchell, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Africa at the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The two sides discussed Ethiopia's ongoing economic reform agenda, emerging investment opportunities, and prospects for enhancing economic engagement between the two countries.

During the meeting, Finance Minister Ahmed outlined the government's comprehensive macroeconomic and structural reform program.

He further highlighted significant progress made in recent years as a result of the reform to foster a more competitive economy, improve the business climate, and create a stronger enabling environment for private sector-led growth and foreign direct investment.

Ahmed reaffirmed the government's commitment to sustaining reforms that enhance economic competitiveness, expand market opportunities, and position Ethiopia as an attractive destination for international investors.

On his part, Mark Mitchell, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Africa at the U.S. Department of Commerce commended the progress achieved under Ethiopia's reform program and welcomed the government's continued efforts to improve the investment climate.

He reaffirmed the U.S. Department of Commerce's commitment to promoting stronger commercial relations and supporting increased engagement between American companies and the Ethiopian market.

The two sides also exchanged views on expanding bilateral trade and investment, strengthening private sector co
llaboration, and promoting greater business-to-business partnerships across key sectors.

 

Among the issues discussed was Ethiopia's landmark new international airport development project, with both sides exploring the interest of U.S. financing institutions in supporting the financing of the strategic infrastructure initiative.

The officials emphasized that sustained dialogue and closer economic cooperation will be instrumental in unlocking new investment opportunities, facilitating private sector engagement, and fostering mutually beneficial economic growth.

They also pledged to further strengthening Ethiopia–United States economic and commercial relations while pursuing practical measures to boost trade, attract investment, and expand long-term business cooperation.