Ethiopia is fully prepared to unleash immense investment potential, driven by comprehensive economic reforms and its strategic position as a gateway to Africa.
In a speech at the Ethiopia-Brazil Economic Cooperation Forum, promising prospects were outlined across diverse sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, energy, and tourism.
It was stated: “We believe Brazilian investors, known for their expertise in technology, manufacturing, logistics, sustainable development, and value chain integration, are uniquely positioned to seize the attractive investment opportunities Ethiopia offers.”
It was noted that the timing of the forum is particularly significant, as Ethiopia has undergone a distinguished reform journey over the past seven or eight years, with the government implementing radical changes to create an open, dynamic, and industry-friendly environment.
Ethiopia is seen as emerging as a strategically attractive investment destination, driven by the liberalization of key sectors that were previously closed to foreign investment.
It was added: “Today, we welcome international investors in the telecommunications, banking, foreign trade, and wholesale and retail trade sectors.”
It was indicated that regulatory improvements and digital transformation efforts are making investing and operating in Ethiopia easier than ever before.
According to the presentation, Ethiopia produces one of Africa’s largest sources of renewable energy, providing investors with reliable and affordable electricity, which are key advantages for the manufacturing and agro-processing sectors.
It was confirmed that modern special economic zones have also been established, designed to provide efficient services.
It was explained that through the African Continental Free Trade Area, investors in Ethiopia can access a consumer market of 1.4 billion people, adding that Ethiopia, along with its connection via Ethiopian Airlines’ network, serves as a natural gateway to the African continent.
Ethiopia also offers generous tax incentives on cooperative income, customs duty exemptions, investment guarantee incentives, comprehensive integrated services at the investment authority, and more.
The diversity of investment opportunities in Ethiopia was highlighted, confirming that agriculture and agro-processing industries remain a priority sector in the country’s economy, alongside tourism, ICT, and mining.
It was added: “We firmly believe that Brazil has much to offer the world. Brazil’s agribusiness and food industries are among the most competitive globally, a level that is difficult for other countries to match.”
It was affirmed that this makes Brazil a model for emerging economies seeking to transition from traditional agriculture to globally competitive, value-added agro-food industries.
