Ethiopia is rolling out the welcome mat for global investors, gearing up to host the "Invest Ethiopia 2025: High Level Business Forum." This major summit, spearheaded by the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC), the Ministry of Finance, and the Development Partners Group, aims to unlock significant foreign and domestic investment opportunities.
The forum, now in its third edition, is scheduled to take place from May 12-13, 2025, at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa.
Organizers announced the forum will convene under the theme “ETHIOPIA: THE NEXT FRONTIER FOR INVESTMENT - UNLOCKING UNTAPPED POTENTIAL.” It aims to bring together over 700 investors, policymakers, business leaders, and entrepreneurs to explore the country's investment climate and opportunities. According to the announcement, the event has the potential to generate over $3 billion in investments for Ethiopia in the coming years.
The forum highlights Ethiopia's ongoing macroeconomic reforms, including financial sector liberalization, easing foreign exchange restrictions, opening key economic sectors, and improving administrative conditions, positioning the country as an attractive investment destination.
Officials stated the primary goal is to bolster private sector-led investment by showcasing these reforms, addressing potential challenges, and promoting opportunities across various sectors. Key areas of focus will include manufacturing, agriculture, energy, ICT, healthcare, transport and logistics, and tourism.
"Ethiopia is a country on the rise, and we believe that Invest in Ethiopia 2025... will provide a unique opportunity for investors to learn about the country's business climate, explore investment opportunities, and connect with local entrepreneurs and government officials," said Dr. Zeleke Temesgen, Commissioner of the EIC, in the announcement.
The two-day agenda is designed to foster engagement through policy discussions, presentations on specific sectors, success stories, and dedicated deal-making sessions. The forum is open to all parties interested in exploring investment prospects in Ethiopia.