US Seeks a Bigger Commercial Role in Ethiopia

By Mintesinot Nigussie  |  September 7, 2026

The United States is seeking a bigger commercial foothold in Ethiopia, with a senior American diplomat promoting US bids for two high-profile projects while urging Addis Ababa to continue opening its economy to foreign investors.

Frank Garcia, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, raised American bids for the planned Bishoftu International Airport and the Kenticha mine during a meeting with Finance Minister Ahmed Shide

Garcia welcomed Ethiopia's market liberalisation and fiscal reforms, which Washington says are important for sustained economic growth and development. The discussions suggest that the US is seeking to translate support for those reforms into greater commercial opportunities for American companies.

The projects span two sectors that are central to Ethiopia's investment ambitions: infrastructure and mining. The Bishoftu airport is planned as a major new aviation facility outside Addis Ababa, while Kenticha is a significant mineral-development prospect.

Garcia's economic discussions extended beyond the two projects. At a meeting with American businesses in Ethiopia, hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia, he heard directly from investors about the conditions facing US companies. The discussions focused on improving the environment for American businesses and attracting investment.

Ethiopia has been undertaking its most significant economic reforms in years, including changes to the foreign-exchange regime, efforts to increase private-sector participation and measures aimed at attracting foreign capital. The reforms have created new opportunities for investors, while persistent constraints around foreign exchange, regulation and market access remain important considerations for foreign companies.

Security was another part of Garcia's visit. In talks with Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, he argued that regional peace is closely tied to economic growth and called for progress on stability and de-escalation in the Horn of Africa.

The combination of commercial and diplomatic issues reflects the wider challenge facing foreign investors in Ethiopia. Projects may offer substantial opportunities, but their prospects are also shaped by the country's macroeconomic reforms and by instability in a region where trade and investment routes increasingly cross borders.

Source: FSX Business News