Investment framework and opportunities in Ethiopia
Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment
- Freedom of Establishment
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Both foreign and domestic private entities have the right to establish, acquire, own and dispose of most forms of business enterprises (except for a few strategic sectors). All land is owned by the State, but can be leased for up to 99 years.
- Acquisition of Holdings
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A majority holding interest in a local company by a foreign investor is legal in Ethiopia.
- Obligation to Declare
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A foreign investor intending to buy an existing private enterprise or buy shares in an existing enterprise needs to obtain prior approval from the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC).
- Competent Organisation For the Declaration
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Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC)
- Requests For Specific Authorisations
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Ethiopia’s Investment Code prohibits foreign investment in banking, insurance, and financial services, along with the following sectors: broadcasting, air transport services (up to 50 seats capacity), travel agency services, forwarding and shipping agencies, retail trade and brokerage, wholesale trade (with some exceptions) and most import trade.
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Latest Update: April 2024