President Taye says choosing Ethiopian products is investing in Ethiopia’s future

Addis Ababa, August 30, 2025 (FMC) — The FDRE President Taye Atske-Selassie has called on citizens to prioritize domestic products, stressing that buying Ethiopian is not only about consumption but an investment in the nation’s economic future.

The President made the remarks while inaugurating the “Buy Ethiopian” National Trade Week Expo, which officially opened in Addis Ababa today and will remain open for six days.

The event features exhibitions, a bazaar, and a recognition program honoring leading members of the business community for their performance in the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year.

Touring the exhibition, President Taye underscored that strengthening local consumption creates jobs, enhances productivity, and accelerates national growth. He emphasized that purchasing and using Ethiopian products fortifies the economy against global market fluctuations while building resilience from within.

According to him, high-quality local products play a central role in job creation, wealth generation, and laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

He added that the “Buy Ethiopian” expo serves as an important platform for connecting producers with consumers, encouraging competitiveness, and promoting higher standards of quality.

Reflecting on the broader economy, President Taye noted that Ethiopia remains on a steady growth trajectory, with national reforms driving encouraging progress in both economic and social sectors.

He highlighted increased exports and a significant reduction in inflation, achievements also recognized by international financial institutions.

The President further stressed the importance of regional and global integration. He called for accelerating the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and fast-tracking Ethiopia’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO), which he said are vital to ensuring Ethiopian products gain greater access to global markets.

President Taye explained that the benefits of buying Ethiopian are multidimensional: strengthening national wealth, enhancing entrepreneurial capacity, and instilling cultural pride. At a time of shifting global economic trends, he said, reliance on domestic products is more critical than ever.

He also urged producers to expand their market share by improving quality and speed, assuring them of government support to enhance their competitiveness.

At the same time, he appealed to consumers to understand that choosing Ethiopian products means directly supporting national progress and creating jobs for fellow citizens.

Concluding his address, the President called on investors and financial institutions to provide stronger backing for domestic producers, particularly those participating in the AfCFTA, so that Ethiopian goods can compete effectively both at home and across Africa.