QC seeks deeper trade and investment links with Ethiopia

On Tuesday, the Qatar Chamber convened with the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations to explore avenues for bolstering trade and investment ties between Qatar and Ethiopia. The discussion, led by Rashid bin Hamad Al Athba, Second Vice Chairman of the Qatar Chamber, focused on enhancing cooperation between the two business communities and identifying potential investment prospects across multiple sectors.

Al Athba emphasized the strong affinity between Qatar and Ethiopia's relations, expressing a keen interest in further developing this partnership. He pointed out that several Qatari investors have already made successful investments in Ethiopia, with a notable presence in the agricultural sector. Al Athba reaffirmed the Qatar Chamber's commitment to fostering collaboration between Qatari and Ethiopian businesses, facilitating business-to-business connections, and encouraging joint investment ventures. He stressed the importance of offering incentives and support to entice Qatari investors.

Zehara Mohammed, President of the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce, provided insights into Ethiopia's investment landscape, highlighting its attractiveness in sectors such as agriculture, industry, mining, and real estate. She detailed the incentives and facilities available to attract foreign investment, particularly in the health, agriculture, and mining sectors.

Mohammed extended an invitation for the Qatar Chamber to visit Ethiopia alongside a Qatari business delegation, aiming to explore investment prospects and engage with Ethiopian business leaders.

Mohamed bin Mahdi Al Ahbabi, another Qatar Chamber representative, welcomed increased collaboration between the Qatari and Ethiopian private sectors. He acknowledged the interest of Qatari investors in exploring available opportunities and investment incentives. Eng. Ali Al Misnad, a board member, recounted a recent meeting with the Ethiopian President at the AIM Congress in Dubai, underscoring the significance of establishing a joint business council to strengthen communication and identify investment opportunities.

He advocated for additional incentives and government assistance to attract Qatari investments, especially in the health and agriculture sectors.

Dr. Mohamed bin Jawhar Al Mohammed, another Qatar Chamber board member, painted Ethiopia as a vast market and stressed the importance of organizing a Qatari-Ethiopian business forum. This forum would bring together business leaders and investment authorities to explore available opportunities and incentives for foreign investors.