KARACHI: Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, has announced an upcoming exhibition in Ethiopia that will showcase Pakistani products from May 15 to 17, 2025. The event is intended to open avenues for Pakistani goods in the broader African market.

The announcement was made during Dr. Abdula’s visit to the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), where he detailed Ethiopia’s lucrative incentives for Pakistani manufacturers. These include a 10-year tax holiday for exports made from Ethiopia to other countries and up to 70% revenue support for investments within Ethiopia.

The exhibition is expected to feature over 100 Pakistani brands and manufacturers and will be inaugurated by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Industries and Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan. Dr. Abdula emphasized the strategic advantage of Ethiopia as a “gateway to Africa” and highlighted the country’s cost-effective production environment, which includes nearly 98% renewable energy usage and free water supply for industries.

KATI President Junaid Naqi highlighted Ethiopia as a promising alternative for Pakistani exporters, especially in light of the high U.S. tariffs on Pakistani goods. Naqi appreciated Ethiopia’s hospitality during a trade delegation visit last year and stressed the importance of ongoing trade exchanges.

Naqi also pointed to the enthusiasm among Pakistani investors for exploring opportunities in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, rice, processed foods, and textiles in Ethiopia. He welcomed the establishment of direct flights between the two countries as a significant boost for trade.

Honorary Consul General Ibrahim Tawab noted the participation of 82 Pakistani delegates in last year’s visit to Ethiopia and anticipated over 100 exhibitors for the upcoming event. He emphasized Ethiopia’s reliance on imports, which presents ample opportunities for Pakistani exporters.

KATI Senior Vice President Ejaz Sheikh called for government support to enhance trade relations between Pakistan and Ethiopia. He urged Ethiopian authorities to address the issue of foreign monopolies in local markets to promote fair competition.

The exhibition set for May 15 is seen as a significant opportunity for Pakistani exporters to enter the African and European markets, a sentiment echoed by Sheikh.