ADDIS ABABA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Ethiopian government has invited Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers to explore opportunities for producing and assembling EVs in the country.
The statement was made by Ethiopia's Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime during discussions with potential Chinese investors interested in the East African country.
According to the ministry's statement on Thursday, Sime highlighted that the Ethiopian government has established favorable policies and market conditions to encourage Chinese and other foreign companies to participate in the production and assembly of EVs.
Additionally, the government has created conducive conditions for the mass production of EV charging accessories in Ethiopia, further supporting the growth of the electric mobility sector.
He emphasized that the ministry is committed to providing all necessary assistance to interested Chinese companies, enabling them to commence operations quickly.
As part of the country's ambitious transition to electric mobility, the Ethiopian government in March disclosed its plan to introduce nearly half a million electric vehicles in 10 years. It believes this shift will not only save significant foreign currency spent on fuel imports but also promote environmentally friendly transportation options.
Currently, various Ethiopian companies are collaborating with Chinese EV manufacturers, primarily by importing and assembling electric vehicles locally. For example, the Belayneh Kindie Metal Engineering Complex assembles electric minibuses using components supplied by China's Golden Dragon Company, aiming to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles in Ethiopia. ■