Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, extended an invitation to Karachi’s business community to leverage Ethiopia as a strategic entry point into Africa’s burgeoning market of 1.5 billion consumers.

The Ambassador highlighted the benefits of duty-free and quota-free access to the European Union and the United States for businesses operating in Ethiopia, presenting a compelling opportunity for foreign investors.

During his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Dr. Abdula urged members to participate in the upcoming “Invest in Ethiopia 2025” conference scheduled for May 12-13, 2025, and the subsequent Pakistan’s Single Country Exhibition from May 15-17, 2025. Notably, Ethiopian Airlines plans to offer a 12 percent discount to event participants, with affordable accommodations available.

The ambassador underscored the significance of these events, emphasizing the potential for partnerships and networking with investors, policymakers, and supply chain stakeholders from around the world. He revealed that a substantial number of participants have already committed to attending the Single Country Exhibition, which will display a broad array of Pakistani products to Ethiopian and African audiences.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s position as a leading tourist destination post-COVID, Dr. Abdula noted a 40 percent surge in tourist arrivals, attributed to the country’s tranquil environment and rich historical sites. He further mentioned the nearly 70-year-long diplomatic relationship between Ethiopia and Pakistan, appreciating Pakistan’s “Look Africa and Engage Africa” policy.

Chairman of the Businessmen Group Zubair Motiwala voiced his optimism regarding economic cooperation opportunities between Pakistan and Ethiopia. He noted the existing trade imbalance, with Pakistan’s exports to Ethiopia at a mere US$4.5 million, and stressed the potential for expansion in sectors like textiles, rice, and agriculture. Motiwala pointed to Ethiopia’s advanced agricultural practices as models for Pakistan.

KCCI President Jawed Bilwani welcomed the Ethiopian Ambassador, acknowledging Africa’s economic promise with a population of 1.5 billion and a combined economic output exceeding $3 trillion. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Africa, emphasizing the need to enhance trade relations with Ethiopia.

In conclusion, the KCCI President invited Ethiopian investors to explore Pakistan’s SME sector and construction industry, pointing out Ethiopia’s rising demand for construction materials, which Pakistani companies could capitalize on.