Ethiopia’s emerging investment climate and ongoing macroeconomic reforms are attracting interest from Maltese companies, according to Malta’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ronald Micallef. In an interview with ENA, Micallef stated that as Ethiopia progresses with substantial macroeconomic reforms, Maltese businesses see potential in various sectors within the country. A trade delegation of Maltese companies visited Ethiopia in April 2024, exploring potential opportunities, which Micallef believes is a sign of growing interest and collaboration.
Micallef noted, “The reforms are really timely, important, and relevant. We had 15 companies visit Ethiopia in April 2024 and the general consensus was that Ethiopia is interesting, but these reforms are needed before investment can come here.” He shared that Maltese companies are eager to reactivate their connections with Ethiopia following recent policy updates. He emphasized that Ethiopia’s inclusive reforms foster a more favorable environment for foreign direct investment, solidifying Malta’s confidence in Ethiopia’s economic prospects.
Looking ahead, Maltese companies are especially interested in Ethiopia’s health sector, which Micallef believes holds vast potential not only within the country but across the region. “Another promising area is artificial intelligence, where Maltese companies are actively exploring its use in agriculture to protect water supplies,” he added. Education is another area of focus, with Maltese institutions aiming to collaborate in technical and vocational education sectors. Micallef further commended the infrastructure developments in Addis Ababa, remarking on the city’s transformation into a vibrant business hub that is increasingly attractive to investors. Since establishing an embassy in Ethiopia three years ago, Malta views Ethiopia as a strategic partner in its Africa policy, with deepening relations marking Ethiopia’s significance in Malta’s Africa strategy.
Source, ENA
