The Ethio-Djibouti Standard Gauge Railway Share Company (EDR) has launched its first privately financed expansion, linking AMG Industrial Park near Addis Ababa to the main railway line. The three-kilometer line will be completed in six months and is EDR’s first fully locally executed construction. Transport Minister Alemu Sime said the project advances Ethiopia’s self-reliance goals and strengthens regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area by improving trade transport links.

The African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) praised Ethiopia’s homegrown economic reforms as bold and visionary, calling them a model for inclusive growth in Africa. ACBF Economic and Social Governance Head Peguewinde Rodolphe Bance highlighted progress in fiscal management, market liberalization, and tax reforms that build trust and increase revenue. He also cited digital transformation under the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy as evidence of strong leadership driving the reforms.

Ethiopia earned $546 million from exporting 80,000 metric tonnes of coffee in the first two months of the fiscal year, according to the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority. The surge follows supply chain reforms enabling direct sales to international buyers and new washing and grading centers. Improved inspection procedures have boosted quality. Ethiopia targets annual exports of 600,000 tonnes, aiming for $3 billion in coffee revenue.

The World Bank projected Ethiopia’s poverty rate to rise to 43% in 2025, reversing years of progress. The report cites conflict, drought, inflation, and economic shocks as key drivers. Poverty climbed from 33% in 2016 to 39% in 2021, with rural communities most affected. Despite reforms to stabilize the economy and expand safety nets, the Bank warned that Ethiopia faces debt distress and rising inequality.

Ethiopia began exporting goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), marking a milestone in its regional trade integration. The first shipments of meat, fruits, and other agricultural products went to Somalia, Kenya, and South Africa. Trade Minister Kassahun Goffe said the launch signals Ethiopia’s growing role in African trade. Officials said the initiative will boost intra-African trade, competitiveness, and economic cooperation across the continent.

Ethiopia announced tax exemptions for all public transport and cargo vehicles powered by natural gas to reduce fuel imports and support local energy use. The policy follows the launch of a gas processing facility in Callub, now supplying domestic markets. Officials said the initiative will strengthen energy security, cut carbon emissions, and support sustainable growth by shifting from petrol and diesel to cleaner, locally sourced fuels.