EUBFE Released Early COVID-19 Early Impact Assessment

EUBFE conducted a survey to assess the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on its member companies in Ethiopia. Key findings of the survey indicate that eventhough the on set of the virus was late in Ethiopia, witht the first case reported in mid-march, its impact was sharp and significant to many. Moreover, data indicated that at this early level estimation, many companies expect to recover from its impact in around a year's time. Concerns over safety and security were also flagged. To read the full report please follow the link below.

Read Full Early Impact Report

EUBFE Addressed Participants during Investment Engagement Summit Organized by EIC

The EU Business Forum took part in an investor engagement summit organized by the Ethiopian Investment Commission on December 11, 2020. The summit aimed at presenting the major legal reforms undertaken during the year to improve the business climate while also conferring with investors on current challenges. The summit was opened by key note addresses from HE Lelise Neme Commissioner of Investment Commission and Mr. Erik Habers, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Ethiopia. The board chairman of EUBFE, Mr. Ben Depraetere, then addressed the audience on key accomplishments and engagement of EUBFE as well as areas of collaboration that need further strengthening.

The EIC presented key reforms in the investment climate, including the new investment law and regulation. This law created negative listing of investment areas, that clearly delineate areas of investment reserved for local and joint investment, allowing FDI to participate otherwise. Moreover, the law establishes an investment board, that for the first time allows the private sector two seats.

You may click on the following link below to find out detailed changes enacted via the new investment law.

https://eubfe.eu/images/Ethiopian%20Investment%20law%20reform%20in%202020.pdf

Following presentation on major legal and economic reforms as well as on investor aftercare service a panel discussion ensued. Existing challenges European Companies face, including access to forex, tax and customs were discussed. The EIC pledged to continue to support European investors and to such effect has assigned a contact person that would look after European FDI. Moreover, it was indicated that more sustained investor-enagement will be pursued in the years to come.

EUBFE Held Consultative E-Meeting with the new EIC Commissioner

The new commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) held consultative meeting with the board of the EUBFE and the EU Delegation
Hosted by HE Ambassador Johan Borgstam, head of the EU delegation to Ethiopia, the meeting was the first since HE Ms. Lelise Neme took helms at the commission
Following round of introductions and congratulatory messages on the appointment of HE Lelise from HE Ambassador Borgstam and Mr. Depraetere-Chair of EUBFE, representatives of the EU delegation and the EUBFE made power point presentations on the previous and current engagements of their respective institutions with the EIC.

On the discussion that ensued, EUBFE members indicated that despite the robust relationship established with the EIC and the tangible results registered, in particular via the public-private-dialogue (PPD) platform, a number of concerns of European FDI community remain unresolved. In addition to a more recent concern that is investment security, work permit renewal, logistical bottlenecks, foreign exchange shortage and uneven application of regulations and laws were pointed out. In response, HE Lelise pointed out that multi-regional forum, led by regional presidents and investment commissioners, has been established to oversee any concerns that might arise by investors and EIC will be happy to invite EUBFE to attend an upcoming meeting. Moreover, Commissioner Lelise promised to dedicate personnel and time to look into the challenges raised by EUBFE. In conclusion, EUBFE invited HE to an introductory meeting with members of EUBFE.

EUBFE held its first thematic networking event of 2020 on the sidelines of its general assembly

IMG-20200227-WA0000

EUBFE’s general assembly held on February 27, 2020 saw approval of external audit report of FY 2019 as well as review and approval of annual plan for 2020. Major strategic focus for the year 2020 include expansion of membership base, enhance engagement and advocacy work as well as add new services and ventures. The EU Delegation in Ethiopia has pledged some 300 thousand euros worth of technical assistance towards improving EUBFE and this was officially announced at the general assembly. This is believed to be an important contribution towards realizing the key strategic goals set by the board of management of EUBFE.

Following the general assembly, a thematic networking event that focused on the implementation of the new customs legislation took place. It was hosted in partnership with EUBFE’s member association, the Ethiopian Netherlands Business Association (ENLBA). A panel composed of distinguished guests that include Mr. Gaim Yibrah (Director of the Strategic Partnership Directorate- Customs Commission), Mrs. Elisabeth Getahun (President of freight Forwarders and Shipping Association) Mr. Getachew Zewdu (Representative of Clearing Agents), Mr. Hayo Hamster (President of ENLBA) as well as Mr. Ben Depraetere (Chair of EUBFE) led the discussion on the application of the new customs legislation 1160/19 and the challenges associated with it. Particular concern was the reduction of maximum allowable deadline of goods in customs warehouses to 15 days in dry ports and 10 at airport and the fine of 20% of customs value sanction who fail to remove their imports within these day limits. Mr. Gaim responded to questions and concerns on behalf of Customs Commission and took away some suggestions for further scrutiny.

European Union Business Forum Ethiopia

Latest News & Events

EUBFE Addressed Participants during Investment...

EUBFE Addressed Participants during Investment...

EUBFE Held Consultative E-Meeting with the new...