Ethiopia has extended an invitation to European and French companies to launch operations in the Dire Dawa Free Trade Zone (FTZ), offering top-tier infrastructure and a streamlined investment process.

Dr. Fisseha Yitagesu, CEO of the Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC), made the call during the high-level Ethiopia-Europe Investment Forum held in Paris.

In discussions with prominent European and French business owners, Dr. Fisseha assured potential investors that the IPDC is committed to providing standard-compliant infrastructure and one-stop-shop services for those who commit capital and expertise to the Dire Dawa FTZ.

The IPDC Chief Executive utilized the forum to highlight Ethiopia's growing investment landscape, specifically detailing opportunities in the transport, logistics, and infrastructure sectors. He further explained that, to support the growth of emerging national strategic investments, the transport and logistics sectors have been opened up to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

As a public enterprise tasked with accelerating industrial transition, the Corporation pledged full support to ensure a positive and successful tenure for foreign investors operating within the country.

The IPDC currently manages 14 special economic zones and parks, which collectively host over 200 operating companies. These businesses have successfully generated employment for more than 100,000 Ethiopian citizens.