Ethiopia Courts UK Investors, Showcases Expanding Opportunities Under Reform Agenda

Addis Ababa, June 23, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia showcased its ongoing economic reform agenda and expanding investment opportunities at the UK–Ethiopia Trade and Investment Forum held in London, bringing together government officials, investors and business leaders from both Ethiopia and the United Kingdom.

The forum opened with officials from both countries emphasizing the importance of strengthening trade and investment cooperation between Ethiopia and the United Kingdom.

In a keynote address, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms are creating a more competitive and investor-friendly business environment, highlighting improved economic performance, rising investor confidence and expanding opportunities for private sector participation.

He outlined investment opportunities across key sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, mining, energy, infrastructure, finance, healthcare and technology, and noted growing investor interest in Ethiopia alongside strengthening bilateral economic relations with the United Kingdom.

Representing the UK Government, Ben Ainsley reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation with Ethiopia.

Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Biruk Mekonnen, highlighted the opportunities created by Ethiopia’s reform agenda and encouraged British investors to expand their engagement in the country.

Panel discussions explored investment prospects in agribusiness, energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, mining, logistics and the digital economy.

Among the speakers were Tesfahun Gobezay and Billene Seyoum, who emphasized reforms and opportunities in agribusiness and the digital economy. Participants underscored Ethiopia’s expanding market, reform programme and strategic position as a gateway to African markets.

Closing the first day of the forum, Lalisa Berhanu said the event reflected the strength of Ethiopia–UK relations and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to welcoming investors as partners in its development journey.

The second day focused on business-to-government engagements, where investors met Ethiopian officials and potential financiers to discuss large-scale projects in infrastructure, agriculture, irrigation, energy and industry, with discussions expected to support future investment partnerships.

The two-day forum was co-organized by the Government of Ethiopia, the Ethiopian Embassy in London, the UK Government and DMA Invest, bringing together representatives of development finance institutions, business associations, private companies and diplomatic missions.