The Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC), together with key stakeholders including the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI), the Customs Commission, the Industrial Parks Development Corporation, and the Ethiopian Shipping Lines and Logistics Services Enterprise, has successfully concluded the operational commencement and handover of premises for investors at the Dire-Dawa Free Trade Zone (FTZ).
During the event, Zeleke Temesgen, Chief Commissioner of EIC, emphasized the Ethiopian government’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment through comprehensive reforms. He noted that the adoption of the SEZ Proclamation is a pivotal part of these reforms, which aims to enhance competitiveness and facilitate private sector participation in the economy.
The Dire-Dawa FTZ is a cornerstone for implementing the government’s recent macroeconomic reforms. It is the first multi-purpose SEZ in Ethiopia, designated by the Ethiopian Investment Board to incorporate Free Trade Zones and an Industrial Park, inter alia.
A Steering Committee co-chaired by the EIC and MoTRI, alongside a technical committee led by the EIC, has been diligently working on various technical aspects to ensure the successful operationalization of Free Trade Zones and SEZs.
Today, the EIC, along with relevant partners, officially handed over premises within the Dire-Dawa Free Trade Zone to seven investors, that will commence operations immediately. An additional 15 investors are anticipated to begin operations soon.
Source: FMC
