Ethiopia’s Economic Reforms Improve Business Climate, Attract Chinese Investors: Chinese Ambassador

Addis Ababa, August 26, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s steady economic growth and improving investment climate continue to attract more Chinese investors, according to Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Hai said Ethiopia stands out as one of Africa’s largest and fastest-growing markets, offering substantial opportunities for international business partners and investors.

“It offers a large market and tremendous opportunities. Ethiopia is one of Africa’s largest markets and one of its fastest-growing economies,” he said.

The ambassador highlighted Ethiopia’s progress in key areas of economic transformation, including industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural modernization.

“Ethiopia is at a stage of industrialization, urbanization, and agricultural modernization, and both China and Ethiopia are on the path toward modernization,” he noted.

He said the growing economic ties between the two countries are creating opportunities not only for economic development but also for improving livelihoods.

“The link with China provides tremendous opportunities not only for the economy but also for local livelihoods,” Ambassador Hai said, noting that Ethiopia and China share a common aspiration for modernization.

Reflecting on his two years in Ethiopia, the ambassador said he had witnessed tangible improvements in the country’s economic ecosystem and business environment, citing the growing presence of Chinese investors and the establishment of new manufacturing facilities.

“Over the past two years since I came to Ethiopia, more and more Chinese investors and entrepreneurs have come to this country, settled here, and made investments. More and more plants and factories have been established,” he said.

Ambassador Hai attributed the improving investment environment to reform efforts undertaken by both the federal and regional governments, saying the measures have helped create more favorable conditions for businesses and investors.

He also highlighted the expanding trade relationship between Ethiopia and China, particularly changes in Chinese consumer demand for Ethiopian products.

Ethiopian agricultural commodities and raw materials, including coffee beans and sesame, remain popular among Chinese consumers, while industrial and value-added Ethiopian products are increasingly gaining acceptance in the Chinese market, he said.

“I believe there are many Ethiopian products that are becoming more popular among Chinese consumers, especially coffee beans, sesame, and other raw materials. Recently, industrial products have also been gaining wider acceptance among Chinese consumers,” the ambassador added.

Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that continued cooperation between Chinese businesses and Ethiopian authorities would further strengthen the country’s business ecosystem and generate greater opportunities for trade and investment.

He added that stronger practical cooperation in trade and investment would contribute to the economic development of both countries and further deepen bilateral relations.

The relationship between Ethiopia and China has been elevated to an all-weather strategic partnership, reflecting the two countries’ commitment to expanded cooperation and mutual development, and underscoring the broader importance of China-Africa economic relations.