Indian Investor Urges Global Investors to Seize Emerging Business Opportunities in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, July 26, 2025 (FMC) — Rajeev Sharma, an Indian investor and long-time resident of Ethiopia, has expressed strong confidence in Ethiopia’s economic resilience, ongoing growth, and future potential, urging global investors to seize the country’s emerging opportunities.

As General Manager of Anmol Products Ethiopia PLC, Sharma recalled that his company began investing in Ethiopia in 2007 with an initial capital of six million USD. Today, the company employs over 300 people, a success he attributed to strong local support.

“Our success story would not have been possible without the people of Ethiopia and the support of the Ethiopian government. When there are challenges, there is also great potential,” he told local news agency ENA.

Building on this foundation, Sharma’s group has expanded its investments by launching Eco-Packaging PLC, capitalizing on Ethiopia’s strategic advantages, including a young population, abundant natural resources, and ongoing economic reforms.

“We are confident in Ethiopia’s economy. The large and youthful population, as well as its strong human capital, motivated us to invest,” he added.

Sharma highlighted investor-friendly policies such as the Homegrown Economic Reform Program and the revised foreign exchange regulations, which encourage investment in Ethiopia.

He further pointed out that Ethiopia offers vast potential for investors as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, strategically located to connect Africa and the Middle East.

“The country’s rich natural resources—including fertile land, hydropower, and minerals—combined with government reforms in telecom, finance, and energy, have fostered a business-friendly environment,” Sharma said.

Major infrastructure projects such as industrial parks and transport networks are positioning Ethiopia as a regional manufacturing and logistics hub, creating untapped markets and promising long-term growth.

Two years ago, Sharma’s group launched Eco Packaging Industry PLC in Shaggar City, Oromia Region. He noted significant potential for the paper packaging industry as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative, especially given the federal government’s commitment to replacing plastic with paper.

“We fully trust the vision of Honorable Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who is leading growth with a focus on the environment. We plan to expand further in eco-friendly packaging,” he said.

As Ethiopia aims to strengthen its industrial and export base, Sharma emphasized the importance of self-reliance and local production, calling for increased efforts in this area.

Finally, he urged international investors to seize Ethiopia’s potential, underscoring the win-win benefits for both investors and the country.