For more than three decades, the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) has served as Ethiopia’s principal investment promotion and facilitation agency, supporting thousands of domestic and foreign investors seeking to establish, expand and operate businesses in the country. Established in 1994, the EIC is an autonomous government institution accountable to the Ethiopian Investment Board, chaired by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia. The Commission is mandated to promote Ethiopia as an attractive investment destination, facilitate the establishment and expansion of investments, provide specialized services to new and existing investors, and advise the Government on measures to continuously improve the country’s investment climate.

The EIC also plays a central role in investment policy advocacy, investor aftercare, investment facilitation and strengthening linkages between foreign and domestic enterprises. Over the past several years, Ethiopia has undertaken significant reforms aimed at opening the economy, improving private-sector participation and creating a more competitive investment environment. These reforms have been accompanied by the introduction of new investment frameworks, the expansion of opportunities for foreign investors into previously restricted sectors, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as platforms for export-oriented manufacturing, logistics, services and other strategic investments. Ethiopia continues to rank among Africa’s major destinations for foreign direct investment.

During the 2025/26 fiscal year, Ethiopia attracted approximately USD 4.4 billion in foreign direct investment, reflecting continued investor confidence and growing interest in the country’s expanding investment opportunities. Priority sectors include manufacturing, agriculture and agro-processing, renewable energy, mining, pharmaceuticals, logistics, tourism and hospitality, digital services, and other emerging industries. The country’s investment pipeline also continues to demonstrate strong investor interest.

The EIC has received international recognition for its work in investment promotion and policy advocacy. In 2021, the Commission received the Gold Award in the WAIPA–World Bank “Strengthening IPA Advocacy Services” global competition, recognizing its contribution to investment-climate reform. The EIC has also previously received the 2018 AIM Investment Award, the 2017 United Nations Investment Promotion Award, and recognition from the World Bank Group for its investment reform and promotion efforts.

 Building on more than 30 years of experience, the EIC remains committed to positioning Ethiopia as a competitive investment destination and providing investors with coordinated support throughout the investment lifecycle—from initial inquiry and establishment to implementation, expansion and aftercare.