Swiss-Ethiopia Economic Forum Opens New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The first-ever Swiss-Ethiopia Economic Forum concluded today with significant announcements that promise to reshape economic cooperation between the two nations. Held at the Sheraton Addis from June 10-11, the high-level gathering brought together over 200 business leaders, policymakers, and investors, culminating in $150 million worth of investment commitments and several strategic partnerships.
The forum’s opening ceremony featured remarks by Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and Swiss Ambassador Simon Geissbühler, who both emphasized the untapped potential for collaboration. “Switzerland’s world-class expertise in precision engineering, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable agriculture perfectly complements Ethiopia’s development priorities and young, dynamic workforce,” Minister Shide noted in his keynote address.
Investment and Trade Agreements
Swiss multinationals announced major investment plans, with pharmaceutical giant Roche committing $60 million to establish a regional packaging facility in Addis Ababa’s Kilinto Industrial Park. Food processing company Nestlé revealed a $40 million investment to source and process Ethiopian coffee and spices for European markets.
On the trade front, discussions focused on reducing barriers for Ethiopian exports. Swiss importers expressed particular interest in specialty coffee varieties, with a consortium of buyers agreeing to purchase 20,000 tons annually through direct contracts with Ethiopian farmers. The Swiss Chocolate Association signed a memorandum of understanding to train Ethiopian cocoa producers in quality standards.
Technology Transfer and Skills Development
A highlight of the forum was the announcement of the Swiss-Ethiopia Skills Initiative, a $30 million vocational training program funded by the Swiss government. The five-year project will establish centers of excellence in Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, and Hawassa focused on precision manufacturing, renewable energy technology, and pharmaceutical production.
“Knowledge transfer is just as valuable as financial investment,” explained Ambassador Geissbühler. “We’re bringing Swiss apprenticeship models to develop Ethiopia’s next generation of technicians and engineers.” The first center will open in early 2025 with capacity to train 5,000 students annually.
Private Sector Enthusiasm
Small and medium enterprises from both countries reported striking deals during the B2B sessions. Swiss solar technology company Meyer Burger agreed to license its panel manufacturing technology to Ethiopian firm GreenPower, while Zurich-based fintech company Leonteq signed a partnership with Dashen Bank to develop digital payment solutions.
Ethiopian Airlines used the forum to announce a new cargo route to Zurich, tripling weekly flights to meet anticipated growth in perishable goods exports. “This creates a direct bridge between Ethiopian producers and European consumers,” said airline CEO Mesfin Tasew.
Looking Ahead
The forum established a bilateral business council co-chaired by the Ethiopian Investment Commission and Switzerland’s Economiesuisse. The group will meet quarterly to address challenges and explore new opportunities.
With commitments already translating into concrete projects, organizers announced plans to make the forum an annual event, alternating between Addis Ababa and Geneva. As participants departed, the prevailing sentiment was captured by Nestlé’s regional director: “Today marks the beginning of what we believe will become one of Switzerland’s most important economic partnerships in Africa.”
