Addis Ababa, November 7, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia and Viet Nam held constructive talks today to advance Ethiopia’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and further strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations.

The Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the United Nations Office at Geneva and other international organizations, Tsegab Kebebew, met with Viet Nam’s Permanent Representative to the UN, WTO, and other international organizations, Mai Phan Dung, to discuss issues of mutual interest within the framework of Ethiopia’s WTO accession.

Both sides welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral market access negotiations, with Tsegab emphasizing Ethiopia’s readiness to finalize discussions by the end of November 2025. He noted that timely conclusion of the . . . . 

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, has underscored that surgical care must be at the heart of Africa’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), calling for bold, government-led actions and innovative approaches to transform the continent’s surgical systems.

Speaking at the opening of the Pan African Surgical Healthcare Forum (PASHeF) in Addis Ababa on Wednesday, Dr. Mekdes stressed that surgery is not a peripheral service but a core component of comprehensive health care. She urged African governments to align surgical priorities with national development agendas to ensure that services meet the real needs of communities.

Despite persistent challenges, the Minister noted encouraging post-pandemic progress, particularly the growing recognition of . . . . . .

Addis Ababa, November 6, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has created the capacity to produce critical medicines not previously manufactured anywhere in Africa, positioning the country to meet domestic demand and supply the wider African pharmaceutical market, the Qilinto Special Economic Zone announced.

This initiative is part of Ethiopia’s broader strategy to strengthen local pharmaceutical production. Local companies have been authorized to operate within the Qilinto Special Economic Zone, where facilities now produce medicines, diagnostic tools, medical equipment, and pharmaceutical packaging for market distribution.

Dr. Tadesse Teferi, President of the Ethiopian Pharmaceuticals & Medical Supplies Manufacturing Association (EPMSMA), told Fana Media Corporation that several factories are already operational, while others have completed construction and are preparing to begin . . . . 

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia and China have formally signed a Bilateral Market Access Protocol at the World Trade Organizhttps://www.fanamc.com/english/ethiopia-and-china-seal-market-access-deal-advancing-wto-accession/ation (WTO) Headquarters in Geneva, marking a significant step forward in Ethiopia’s accession to the WTO.

The agreement was signed by Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, Tsegab Kebebew, and China’s Permanent Representative to the WTO, Li Yongjie.

The signing follows a period of constructive dialogue and technical negotiations between the two countries, reflecting their shared commitment to deepening economic cooperation and promoting a fair, inclusive, and rules-based global trading system.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia and the European Union discussed advancing strategic investments in infrastructure, energy, digital connectivity, and the green transition under the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy during the EU–Ethiopia Business Conference.

The Global Gateway Strategy, the EU’s flagship initiative aimed at boosting sustainable and trusted global connections, formed the central focus of discussions between high-level representatives from the European Union, the European Investment Bank (EIB), and Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance.

Finance Minister Ahmed Shide held meetings with EU and EIB officials to identify priority areas for partnership, emphasizing Ethiopia’s commitment to leveraging the initiative to drive inclusive economic growth, industrialization, and climate-resilient development.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2025 (FMC) — European investors and business leaders attending the EU–Ethiopia Business Conference in Paris have highlighted Ethiopia’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as strategic platforms to expand manufacturing, logistics, and regional trade, underscoring the country’s growing appeal as a preferred investment destination in Africa.

The Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC) and Gada SEZ leadership presented Ethiopia’s enabling investment environment, emphasizing modern logistics, integrated industrial services, and streamlined regulatory processes that facilitate ease of doing business.

IPDC Chief Executive Officer Feseha Yitagesu said the SEZs serve as gateways for investment and innovation. “Ethiopia’s Special Economic Zones are not just industrial hubs—they are gateways for investment, innovation, and regional trade. We are committed to providing investors with the infrastructure, support, and  . . . . .

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, and Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, held high-level talks with senior Russian officials to strengthen bilateral strategic and economic cooperation.

The Ethiopian delegation met with Maxim S. Oreshkin, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation, and Maxim Reshetnikov, Russia’s Minister of Economic Development, to discuss a wide range of issues aimed at deepening collaboration between the two countries.

During the discussions, FM Gedion highlighted the long-standing relations between Ethiopia and Russia, expressing gratitude for Moscow’s continued support in various sectors.

He also urged greater Russian investment in Ethiopia’s agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, and mineral development, as well as

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Addis Ababa, November 3, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s new international airport project has been presented as a landmark investment opportunity during a dedicated session of the EU–Ethiopia Investment Forum held in Paris, drawing strong interest from European partners and investors.

The session, featuring the Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group (EAG) Mr. Mesfin Tasew along with representatives from Dar and KPMG, highlighted the project’s strategic importance for Ethiopia’s aviation and logistics sectors.

Participants underscored that the new airport, to be built in Bishoftu, will serve as a major regional hub—enhancing connectivity, facilitating trade, and driving economic growth across Africa, it has been learned.

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2025 (FMC) — The Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Ethiopia’s business climate and attracting sustainable investment through continued reforms and public–private cooperation.

Speaking at the EU–Ethiopia Business Forum held in Paris, government representatives and international partners underscored the country’s progress in promoting transparency, simplifying regulations, and institutionalizing Public–Private Dialogue (PPD) as key pillars for competitiveness and job creation.

EIC Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen said Ethiopia has made significant strides in improving its investment environment, driven by the government’s macroeconomic reforms and commitment to sustained private sector growth. He emphasized that these efforts will continue to focus on creating a predictable, transparent, and . . . . .

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia and France reaffirmed their economic partnership during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the EU–Ethiopia Investment Conference in Paris, focusing on boosting trade and investment between the two countries.

Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, met with France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness, Nicolas Forissier, to discuss expanding bilateral economic cooperation and promoting greater French investment in Ethiopia.

The discussion highlighted areas of shared interest, including industrial development, renewable energy, infrastructure, agro-processing, and digital transformation. Both sides emphasized their longstanding partnership and mutual commitment to advancing sustainable and inclusive growth.

Addis Ababa, October 21, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia and Israel have agreed to strengthen their economic and investment cooperation following a high-level discussion between their finance ministers.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., providing a platform to explore ways to enhance the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

Minister Ahmed Shide reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing mutually beneficial ties and highlighted opportunities for cooperation aligned with the country’s national development priorities.

Minister Bezalel Smotrich praised Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and expressed Israel’s readiness to expand engagement by . . . .

Addis Ababa, October 21, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia is moving closer to joining the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), a key step aimed at strengthening investor confidence and aligning the country’s investment framework with international standards.

During a meeting held on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., Finance Minister Ahmed Shide met with ICSID Secretary-General Martina Polasek to discuss progress on Ethiopia’s accession and ratification process.

Ahmed said Ethiopia’s engagement with ICSID reflects the government’s commitment to fostering a transparent, predictable, and rules-based investment environment. He underscored that joining ICSID would enhance legal certainty for investors and further integrate Ethiopia into the global investment community.

Addis Ababa, October 21, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia and the United States are working closely to coordinate on economic reforms and explore new avenues for trade and investment, reinforcing shared priorities for sustainable growth and development.

The discussions were held this week during high-level meetings between Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and senior officials from the U.S. Treasury and State Department on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Annual Meetings.

During the talks, Ahmed briefed U.S. officials on Ethiopia’s progress in implementing its homegrown economic reform agenda, highlighting efforts to improve transparency, strengthen governance, and create a more conducive environment for business and investment.

Addis Ababa, October 20, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has strengthened its cooperation with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) to mobilize private capital and accelerate the country’s economic transformation.

Finance Minister Ahmed Shide held discussions with IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop and MIGA Executive Vice President Hiroshi Matano on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank–IMF Annual Meetings. The talks focused on expanding strategic collaboration to de-risk investments, attract financing, and unlock private sector growth in priority areas.

On the occasion, Minister Ahmed highlighted the progress achieved under Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, which has strengthened macroeconomic stability and improved the investment climate. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining reform momentum and working closely with international partners to attract transformative private investment.

Addis Ababa, October 21, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia and the United States are working closely to coordinate on economic reforms and explore new avenues for trade and investment, reinforcing shared priorities for sustainable growth and development.

The discussions were held this week during high-level meetings between Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and senior officials from the U.S. Treasury and State Department on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund (IMF) Annual Meetings.

During the talks, Ahmed briefed U.S. officials on Ethiopia’s progress in implementing its homegrown economic reform agenda, highlighting efforts to improve transparency, strengthen governance, and create a more conducive environment for business and investment.

Addis Ababa, October 16, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia is being promoted as a prime destination for investment and a gateway to Africa as officials from Pakistan and Ethiopia highlighted opportunities for enhanced trade and economic cooperation at the 5th Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference and Single Country Exhibition held at Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Pakistan’s Federal Minister of Commerce, Jan Kamal Khan, emphasized Africa’s potential as a partner in development. “Africa today is one of the most promising economic regions in the world, rich in natural resources and driven by a young and energetic population,” he said.

He underscored Pakistan’s Look Africa policy, launched in 2017, which seeks to deepen engagement with the continent through trade, investment, and industrial cooperation.

Addis Ababa, October 14, 2025 (FMC) – The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) announced today the results of its tenth foreign exchange auction, signaling continued stability in the country’s formal FX market.

A total of 31 commercial banks received allocations under the auction, with the weighted average rate of all successful bids recorded at Birr 148.1007 per US Dollar.

The central bank emphasized that it will continue conducting foreign exchange auctions as needed, with prior public announcements of dates and times, ensuring that both business and individual demand are effectively addressed.

Addis Ababa, October 14, 2025 (FMC) – The World Bank has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s development through its flagship initiatives, underscoring the importance of sustained partnership in advancing the country’s reform agenda and growth.

On the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank–IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa Ndiame Diop held discussions with a high-level Ethiopian delegation led by Finance Minister Mr. Ahmed Shide.

The delegation also included National Bank Governor Eyob Tekalign, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister Teklewold Atnafu, and other senior officials.

Addis Ababa, October 13, 2025 (FMC) – The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) said today that strong foreign exchange inflows continue to bolster the country’s price and external stability, reassuring businesses and individuals that the formal forex market is effectively addressing demand.

Reflecting record inflows received last year, commercial banks have intensified their foreign exchange allocations, a trend the NBE will support through periodic auctions as needed. The central bank emphasized that foreign exchange supply conditions remain robust, with both business and individual needs being widely met across the banking system.

In line with this, the NBE will hold its tenth foreign exchange auction of the fiscal year on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, allocating $150 million to commercial banks. Bids can be submitted via email at fxauction@nbe.gov.et

Addis Ababa, October 10, 2025 (FMC) — The government of Ethiopia has announced a comprehensive tax exemption for all types of dry and liquid cargo vehicles, as well as public transport vehicles powered entirely by natural gas (CNG – Compressed Natural Gas).

The measure is part of a broader national strategy aimed at promoting the use of domestically produced natural gas and reducing the country’s dependence on imported petroleum products.

Although Ethiopia possesses significant natural gas reserves, the nation has for years been unable to fully harness this resource.

Recent progress, however, shows that the government’s sustained efforts to reverse this situation are beginning to yield tangible results.

A newly established natural gas processing plant has officially begun operations in the Callub area, marking a key milestone in Ethiopia’s energy sector.

Addis Ababa, October 9, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has achieved a significant economic milestone by officially commencing the export of goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

The first shipment, consisting of meat, fruits, and other agricultural products, was dispatched to Somalia, Kenya, and South Africa through both land and air routes. The development marks Ethiopia’s entry into the continent’s unified trade system and reflects its readiness to tap into the vast African market.

Speaking at a symbolic dispatch ceremony held today, Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Goffe described the launch as a *“major milestone in Ethiopia’s trade journey”* and a testament to the country’s growing participation in one of the world’s most ambitious trade initiatives.