Ethiopia Invites Investors for Indode Intermodal Rail Terminal and Logistics Hub
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia July 16, 2025
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Ethiopian Railways Corporation, has called for expressions of interest from global and local investors to develop the Indode Intermodal Rail Terminal, Dry Port, and Logistics Center. The strategic project, located 26 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, is part of Ethiopia’s efforts to boost private sector participation in its transport and logistics sector.
A Key Transport Hub Along the Djibouti-Addis Corridor
The proposed Indode Intermodal Terminal will serve as a critical logistics node along the Djibouti-Addis Ababa trade corridor, which handles the majority of Ethiopia’s import-export cargo. Positioned near the Greater Addis Ababa Area, the country’s primary consumer market, the facility is expected to enhance freight efficiency, reduce logistics costs, and support Ethiopia’s growing trade demands.
The government has structured the project as a public-private partnership (PPP), inviting investors to undertake its design, construction, financing, operation, and maintenance (DBFOM). This model aligns with Ethiopia’s broader economic reforms aimed at increasing private investment in infrastructure.
Opening Up the Transport Sector to Private Investment
Currently, Ethiopia’s transport sector remains largely state-dominated, particularly in freight services, dry ports, and rail operations. The Ministry of Finance emphasized that this project marks a shift toward greater private sector involvement, offering opportunities in logistics, warehousing, and intermodal transport services.
“This initiative reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to modernizing its transport infrastructure and attracting private capital to drive economic growth,” the ministry stated.
Next Steps for Investors
Interested firms are invited to respond to the Request for Expression of Interest (REOI). The project is expected to draw attention from international logistics firms, port operators, and infrastructure developers, given Ethiopia’s strategic position as a gateway to East African markets.
Why This Project Matters
– Trade Efficiency: The terminal will streamline cargo movement between Djibouti’s ports and Ethiopia’s capital.
– Economic Growth: Enhanced logistics infrastructure supports Ethiopia’s industrialization and export goals.
– Investment Opportunity: A rare PPP venture in Ethiopia’s evolving transport sector.
The deadline for submissions has not been disclosed, but further details are expected in the coming weeks.
