Belgium’s economic mission to Ethiopia connected businesses and government leaders in a push to expand trade, support joint ventures, and foster long-term collaboration.

A high-level Belgian economic mission to Ethiopia took place from June 1–4, 2025, beginning with a reception at the Belgian Ambassador’s residence in Addis Ababa. The event brought together representatives of ten Belgian companies, Belgian and Luxembourg firms already operating in Ethiopia, and members of the European Chamber in Ethiopia.

The mission was organized by CBL-ACP in collaboration with the Embassy of Belgium in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian Investment Commission, the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce, the Embassy of Ethiopia in Brussels, and the European Chamber in Ethiopia. It aimed to deepen economic partnerships and explore new trade and investment opportunities.

The visiting delegation represented a broad range of sectors, including agriculture, information technology, healthcare, security, solar energy, and textile machinery. Companies such as Zonpunt, Close the Gap, Vandewiele, Protex Healthcare, and Arecify engaged in discussions with Ethiopian counterparts to identify potential areas for joint ventures.

As part of the program, Piet Schutter, Vice Board Chair of EuroCham, and Martin Hercules, Commerzbank’s Senior Representative for Eastern Africa and a EuroCham member, briefed the Belgian delegation on Ethiopia’s business environment, including recent macroeconomic reforms and EuroCham’s efforts to support private sector development.

A key highlight of the mission was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between CBL-ACP and the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce. The agreement seeks to enhance cooperation across trade, industry, and sustainable development while supporting member companies in expanding their market presence.
The Ethio-Belgium Business Forum, held during the mission, was attended by senior Ethiopian officials, including Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and Ethiopian Investment Commission Commissioner Dr. Zeleke Temesgen. The forum highlighted growing Belgian interest in Ethiopia’s manufacturing, agro-processing, and infrastructure sectors.

Belgian Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E. Dr. Annelies Verstichel, underscored the significance of the mission, noting that Ethiopia and Belgium are approaching 120 years of diplomatic relations. She emphasized that the mission reflects Belgium’s confidence in Ethiopia’s economic potential and its commitment to building long-term partnerships.