Ethiopia has opened several trading sectors to foreign investors.

Ethiopia has opened several trading sectors to foreign investors. In April 2024,

the Ethiopian Investment Commission and the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced that key commercial sectors previously restricted to local investors—such as import-export, retail, and wholesale—are now accessible to foreign businesses. 

This policy shift aims to modernize Ethiopia's business environment, reduce consumer goods prices, and stimulate economic growth.

Under the new directive, foreign investors can engage in retail trade and export commodities like raw coffee, khat, oilseeds, pulses, hides and skins, forest products, poultry,

and livestock. However, certain imports, such as fertilizer and petroleum, remain restricted. 

Following this change, by October 2024, the Ethiopian Investment Commission had issued licenses to 21 foreign companies—13 for retail businesses and 8 for export activities. This development reflects the government's commitment to liberalizing the economy and attracting foreign investors.

This indeed is a wonderful opportunity for foreign investors.