Addis Ababa to Host EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026 Focused on Investment and Trade Cooperation
Addis Ababa is set to host the EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026 from April 20 to April 22, bringing together European and Ethiopian stakeholders to strengthen trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
The three day forum, scheduled to run from 8:30 AM on April 20 to 12:30 PM on April 22, will highlight Ethiopia’s economic opportunities and explore how the European Union and its member states can deepen their partnership with the country under the Global Gateway strategy.
Organizers say the event will focus on key sectors including agribusiness, clean energy, health, and digital transformation. The forum is also expected to emphasize digitalisation and renewable energy as central pillars for long term economic cooperation.
Ethiopia, home to more than 130 million people, is currently one of Africa’s fastest growing economies, with growth projected above six percent. Despite recent economic and political challenges, the country continues to attract foreign investment, particularly in export oriented sectors such as coffee, horticulture, and textiles. Officials note that around 300 European companies are already operating in Ethiopia, while trade relations between the European Union and Ethiopia have strengthened since 2021.
The forum aims to present Ethiopia as an investment destination and create platforms for direct engagement between businesses, investors, and institutions from both sides. Activities will include high level panel discussions, thematic sessions, networking events, and targeted matchmaking opportunities designed to facilitate partnerships and financing.
According to the program outline, the first day will focus on Global Gateway investment opportunities, while the second day will emphasize business engagement and partnership development. The final day will include field visits, allowing participants to explore investment opportunities on the ground.
The EU–Ethiopia Business Forum is expected to bring together representatives from government institutions, private sector companies, development finance institutions, and investors. Organizers say the event aims to promote sustainable, long term economic cooperation and strengthen institutional and private sector ties between Ethiopia and the European Union.
The forum will take place in Addis Ababa, positioning the city once again as a key platform for international economic dialogue and investment engagement in the region.
