Minister Says Ethiopia Entering New Era of Locally Engineered Industrial Production

Addis Ababa, May 8, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia is entering a new phase of industrial development marked by the emergence of locally designed, manufactured, and assembled products, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said, highlighting the progress being registered under the government’s “Made in Ethiopia” initiative.

The minister made the remarks in an exclusive interview with the Fana Podcast as the 4th edition of the “Made in Ethiopia” Expo concludes today in Addis Ababa. The exhibition, held under the theme “Ethiopian Industry for Universal Sovereignty,” was officially opened by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on May 3.

Reflecting on the condition of the manufacturing sector before the launch of the “Made in Ethiopia” movement four years ago, Melaku said industries in the country were limited both in scale and variety.

He noted that the sector later came under additional strain due to the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, while many factories were also heavily affected during the conflict in northern Ethiopia in previous years.

According to the minister, the “Made in Ethiopia” movement was launched to help the country overcome those challenges and place the manufacturing sector on a new path of growth and transformation.

Melaku said a document aimed at addressing the major challenges facing Ethiopia’s manufacturing industry was prepared and discussed extensively, adding that the initiative received support from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Highlighting the changes being witnessed in the sector, the minister stated that Ethiopia has now moved into a stage where machinery designed in Ethiopia, manufactured in Ethiopia, and assembled in Ethiopia is increasingly being put into operation.

He added that expanding the production of import-substitution goods in terms of quality, quantity, and variety is helping reduce foreign currency expenditure while also serving as an expression of modern patriotism.

The minister further said the coincidence of this year’s “Made in Ethiopia” Expo with the commemoration of Patriots’ Victory Day has given the event added historical significance.