Ethiopia and Kenya signed a Simplified Border Trade Regime to strengthen cross-border commerce and support border communities. The agreement, signed in Addis Ababa, aims to simplify procedures for small-scale traders and expand access to basic goods through streamlined rules. Officials said the deal will encourage formal trade, reduce illegal cross-border activity, and promote sustainable development, peace, and security along the shared frontier while deepening long-standing bilateral trade cooperation.

Senior German diplomat said Ethiopia’s market-oriented economic reforms are strengthening investor confidence and attracting long-term international interest. Germany’s diplomat noted that policy consistency under the Homegrown Economic Reform program has improved predictability for investors. He cited reforms in capital markets, logistics, and retail liberalization as positive signals. However, he said further improvements in customs efficiency, freight systems, and market access are needed to sustain growth and competitiveness.

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia launched new loan products targeting smallholder farmers and pastoralists to boost agricultural production and productivity. The financing supports crop farming, livestock, dairy, horticulture, and the purchase of machinery and inputs. Officials said improved access to credit will strengthen food supply, expand agricultural value chains, and support export growth, aligning with broader efforts to modernize Ethiopia’s agricultural finance system.