The Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) announced that Ethiopia secured USD 4 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) during the 2024/25 fiscal year, marking a 2.2 percent increase compared to 2023/24. The Commission also reported issuing the highest number of investment licenses in its history.

According to the statement, a total of 525 new licenses and 19 expansion licenses were granted. Of these, 308 went to foreign investors, 109 to Tamra Investment, and over 98 to local businesses. Priority sectors included manufacturing, ICT, agriculture, and import-export trade, which recently opened to foreign investors.

The Commission highlighted that industrial parks converted into special economic zones generated USD 123 million in exports, while investments outside the zones earned USD 543 million. Efforts to streamline services increased investor confidence by 20 percent, with full digitalization of registration, licensing, and post-investment support introduced.

The year also saw the successful hosting of the “Invest in Ethiopia Investment Forum,” attracting more than 700 investors from 42 countries and generating USD 1.6 billion in commitments. In line with reform efforts, three major legal amendments were enacted to enhance transparency, investor protection, and alignment with global standards.

Source: Addis Zemen