Africa's biggest airport project put Chinese firms on shortlist
Chinese state-owned contractors have been shortlisted for all four main construction packages at Ethiopia's US$12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport.
In April, Ethiopian Airlines Group finalized prequalification for the largest airport development project in Africa, which drew bidders from China, Europe, the Middle East, Türkiye, India, and Russia. The four packages cover the main terminal, support facilities, airfield, infrastructure, and offsite transport links. Chinese state firms hold 15 of the 33 positions on the shortlist, including China Communications Construction Company and China Road and Bridge Corporation.
American contractors did not make the list despite U.S. government efforts. The Lane Construction Corporation, a Connecticut firm linked to Webuild, appeared in three packages through a joint venture with Webuild and Turkey's IC Ictas. The expansion will involve more Boeing 787-9 jets, powered by GE Aerospace engines. Ethiopian Airlines plans to purchase six additional 787-9s, adding to the 20 already on order.
Contractor selection has been delayed until early January 2027 after bidders requested more time to prepare proposals and arrange financing. The project requires over $9 billion in external funding, with $8.5 billion in interest from lenders. The African Development Bank is leading the financing effort, potentially providing $500 million if approved.
U.S. government officials have been actively seeking to secure strong American participation in the project, viewing it as an opportunity to re-enter the African infrastructure market.
Written by urgent.news from VnExpress International's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
