Addis Ababa, April 8, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has made a strong and direct appeal for Brazilian investment, emphasizing its open-for-business stance and the numerous opportunities available across its burgeoning economy.
Speaking at the second Ethio-Brazil Business and Investment Forum held today, Ambassador Leuleseged Tadese, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ethiopia to Brazil, highlighting the nation’s commitment to fostering a favorable environment for foreign ventures.
“Ethiopia is open for business,” said Ambassador Leuleseged in his opening remarks.
He underscored the transformative reforms initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, specifically designed “to create a conducive environment for investors.”
The Ambassador elaborated on a diverse and promising sectors ripe for investment.
“From agribusiness to renewable energy, manufacturing to digital innovation, Ethiopia offers unparalleled opportunities—and Addis Ababa, as Africa’s diplomatic hub, the third largest diplomatic center in the world, is your gateway to a continent of 1.4 billion consumers.”, he said.
Highlighting key priorities for collaboration, Ambassador Leuleseged pointed to agriculture and climate resilience, leveraging Brazil’s expertise in sustainable practices.
He also emphasized the lucrative opportunities within trade and investment, particularly noting Ethiopia’s priority sectors which include agro-processing, manufacturing, renewable energy, mining, ICT & digital economy, and tourism & hospitality.
The country’s growing network of industrial parks and free trade zones, offering incentives like tax holidays and duty-free imports, were also presented as significant advantages for export-oriented industries.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Leuleseged urged the audience to leverage Brazil’s upcoming 2025 BRICS Presidency to further amplify South-South cooperation.
In a direct address to the Brazilian delegation, the Ambassador extended a warm invitation.
“To our Brazilian friends: Ethiopia welcomes you. Our reforms, young workforce, and strategic location are ready for your ventures.”
The forum also served as an opportunity to remind attendees of the upcoming Invest in Ethiopia 2025 event, scheduled for May 12-13, 2025, in Addis Ababa.
Ambassador Leuleseged specifically invited Brazilian tourists to participate, encouraging them to explore the nation’s rich culture and potential.
The Ambassador concluded his remarks with a call to action for both Ethiopian and Brazilian stakeholders, urging them to transform historical ties into shared prosperity, emphasizing that “The time to act is now.”
The second Ethio-Brazil Business and Investment Forum underscores Ethiopia’s proactive approach in attracting foreign direct investment and strengthening its economic partnership with Brazil, signaling a new chapter of collaboration and mutual growth.