An Ethio-Japan Business Forum which was kicked off April 25, 2017 in Tokyo at JETRO head office opened new prospects for a network of cooperative between the two business communities to give fresh vitality to the time-honored and fine tradition of Ethio-Japanese friendship and relationship.
The forum organized by the Ethiopian Embassy to Japan in collaboration with JETRO gave a glimpse of the main reasons to invest in Ethiopia’s emerging manufacturing industry; investment and business opportunities as well as industrialization in the country; business support services of the Ethiopian Chamber System; Ethiopia-Japan policy dialogue (phase three) and its activities to support Japanese businesses and investors in Ethiopia; JICA’s industrial development cooperation in Ethiopia; and overview of the Ethiopian investment climate.
Ethiopia’s Industry Minister Ahmed Abtew speaking on the occasion pointed out that Japan is an important cooperation partner in policy dialogue, research and program development for structural transformation of the Ethiopian economy.
Ahmed highlighted that Ethiopia is looking forward to transforming itself into a regional manufacturing industry hub with the docking of national strategic projects within the second phase of the Growth and Transformation Plan.
The Minister suggested that this strategic partnership showcasing cooperation in policy dialogue and research ought to be raised into new steps and frontiers of practical cooperation in areas including manufacturing industry with a view to help Ethiopia draw a wealth of experience and tap wisdom from Japan.
He also added the need to engage Japanese enterprises in Ethiopia’s trade and investment for the benefit of all sides ranging from ensuring the success of Japanese companies in their endeavor and making Ethiopia the leading manufacturing hub in Africa.
In a related development, during his meeting with the Executive Vice President of JETRO, Dr. Kasumi Hiran, Ahmed called on the Japanese businesses to join Ethiopia’s development of the infrastructure of the manufacturing industry.
The Minister who noted the steady development momentum of governmental diplomacy between the two countries emphasized that the government of Ethiopia stands ready to advance mutually beneficial cooperation in this regard guided by win-win approach and results.
The Industry Minister who briefed the development of industrial parks in various regions noted light manufacturing is currently being mainstreamed by the government as one of the main export revenue generating sectors.
Dr. Kasumi Hirano for his part recalled the decision taken to open JETRO office in Ethiopia and its future importance in expanding the business networks for further progress.
Discussions also covered issues related to new developments being made in Ethiopia which Minister Ahmed said remained seized to the matter of laying the foundation for accelerated structural change of the economy.
The opening process of JETRO Office in Addis Ababa was on the agenda gaining greater attention on both sides committing for strengthened economic ties.
[fanabc.com]