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Import/Export

Ethiopia Substitutes $4.85 Billion Imports as Manufacturing Expands

Apr 27, 2026
Ethiopia Substitutes $4.85 Billion Imports as Manufacturing Expands


• $4.85 billion in imports replaced by local manufacturing in nine months.
• 754 industries entered production under the Made in Ethiopia initiative.
• Manufacturing sector growth rose from 4.8% to over 13%.
• $433 million industrial exports recorded, supporting external market engagement.
• Import substitution reduced pressure on foreign currency reserves.
• Ministry of Industry plans support through finance, raw materials, and energy access.
• Higher energy consumption signals expanding factory output and production capacity.

Why It Matters:
The $4.85 billion import substitution figure signals domestic manufacturing is becoming a material tool in easing Ethiopia’s external balance constraints. If sustained, rising factory output, export growth, and lower import dependence could strengthen FX resilience while supporting industrial-led growth.

Key Numbers:

  • $4.85 billion import substitution

  • 754 industries in production

  • 4.8% to 13% manufacturing growth

  • $433 million industrial exports