Ethiopia grants one-year tax exemption on import of motorized boats to boost tourism

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance has introduced a one-year exemption on import duties and taxes for motorized boats, as part of government measures to develop the country’s lakes into leading tourism destinations.

The decision was announced in a statement the Ministry sent to Fana Media Corporation (FMC) on Saturday.

The Ministry noted that Ethiopia is endowed with more than 20 large lakes — including rift valley, volcanic, and mountain lakes — which, if properly developed and promoted in international tourism markets, could significantly expand the nation’s attractions.

It emphasized that these lakes can generate additional sources of income, improve the living standards of surrounding communities, and increase foreign exchange earnings, while also positioning Ethiopia among the world’s leading tourism destinations.

The directive, issued under Article 129 of Customs Proclamation No. 859/2006 (as amended), grants duty- and tax-free import privileges for a wide range of motorized boats.

According to the statement, eligible imports over the one-year period include small and medium-sized outboard motorboats for fishing and short-distance passenger transport, speedboats for tourism and emergency services, tourist excursion boats, ferries, research vessels, eco boats, pontoon boats, and private motorboats.

The Ministry underlined that the exemption aims to create a favorable investment environment for lake-based tourism and related activities.