Minister: “Made in #Ethiopia” Expo Projected to Attract 150,000 Visitors and Generate Over 5 Billion Birr in Trade Deals

Addis Ababa, May 2, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen its manufacturing sector are gaining momentum, with the government positioning the upcoming 4th Made in Ethiopia Expo as a key platform for industrial growth, trade expansion, and innovation, according to the country’s industry ministry.

Briefing the media ahead of this year’s expo, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said the “Made in Ethiopia” initiative is already improving the competitiveness of local manufacturers by enhancing productivity. He added that the initiative is also addressing structural bottlenecks and expanding market access through coordinated policy support and targeted interventions.

The expo is scheduled to take place from May 3 to 8, 2026, at the Addis International Convention Center under the theme “Made in Ethiopia for Multifaceted Sovereignty.”

Officials said the event is expected to attract more than 150,000 local and international visitors, bringing together manufacturers, investors, policymakers, and innovators in a large-scale exhibition of Ethiopia’s industrial capacity.

They further indicated that the expo is projected to facilitate over 850 trade agreements valued at more than 5 billion birr, underscoring its role as both a commercial platform and a policy-driven instrument for industrial expansion.

Beyond showcasing locally produced goods, the event is designed to promote innovation, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing across different sectors. Startups will be provided dedicated space to engage with established firms, with opportunities to scale their ideas into commercial ventures.

The program will also feature panel discussions, product development competitions, and recognition awards aimed at strengthening Ethiopia’s broader industrial ecosystem. Authorities noted that the initiative aligns with national efforts to enhance food sovereignty through stronger agro-industrial linkages.

At its core, the expo reflects a broader national push to reposition Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector as a driver of economic transformation and global competitiveness.