Third INVEST ETHIOPIA High-Level Business Forum underway in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, May 12, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia is hosting the third edition of the INVEST ETHIOPIA 2025 High-Level Business Forum, a flagship event bringing together global investors, senior government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners to explore transformative investment opportunities.

The two-day forum, taking place from May 12–13 at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, is jointly organized by the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC), Ministry of Finance (MOF), and the Development Partners Group (DPG) Ethiopia.

Held against the backdrop of bold economic reforms and an impressive 8.1% GDP growth in 2024, the forum underscores Ethiopia’s growing appeal as a premier investment destination in Africa. Over 1,000 participants from around the world are attending, including high-level policymakers such as FDRE President Taye Atske-Selassie, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, Industry Minister Mr. Melaku Alebel, Transport & Logistics Minister Mr. Alemu Sime, and EIC Commissioner Zeleke Temesgen (PhD)—signaling the government’s strong commitment to private sector-led growth.

The forum aims to promote dialogue on Ethiopia’s evolving investment climate, address investor concerns related to peace, security, and regulatory responsiveness, and showcase high-impact projects across sectors including renewable energy, agribusiness, ICT, manufacturing, and logistics.

A key focus is the integration of Public-Private Dialogue (PPD), providing a platform for private sector actors to engage directly with senior decision-makers.

With the liberalization of key sectors such as banking, logistics, and trade, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a competitive hub for regional and global investment. The forum features ministerial and CEO roundtables, sector-specific panels, networking sessions, and the unveiling of a new Investment Deal Book. It also highlights opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), reinforcing Ethiopia’s strategic role in the regional market.

Development partners play an active role in this year’s forum, reflecting a collaborative approach to building a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy, it was indicated.

It has been learned that discussions will also provide updates on ongoing reforms and the broader landscape of financialization and business operations in Ethiopia.

The INVEST ETHIOPIA 2025 forum marks a milestone in the country’s investment promotion agenda, reinforcing its ambition to attract quality investments and accelerate long-term economic transformation.