AFFAIRES | AFFAIRES 
APA -Addis Ababa(Ethiopia)
02 May 2025 | 08:08
The Ethiopian Council of Ministers Thursday approved a proclamation allowing foreigners to own and hold immovable property in the country.
The legislation aims to establish a clear legal framework for foreign nationals acquiring or holding real estate in Ethiopia.
The council in a statement underscored the significant benefits of the legislation in encouraging foreign capital investment, stimulating housing development and accessibility, helping balance housing demand and supply, and creating employment opportunities for citizens.
The council stated that the framework is designed to be implemented without restricting the land holding and utilization rights of Ethiopian citizens.
After extensive deliberation, the council unanimously approved and sent the draft proclamation to the House of Peoples’ Representatives for further consideration and potential enactment into law.
Foreign nationals are prohibited from owning immovable property including land, residential or commercial buildings in Ethiopia.
If enacted by the Parliament, the new draft law would mark a major policy shift in Ethiopia’s land and property ownership.
Last March, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hinted at the government’s intention to allow foreigners to own real estate as part of broader economic reforms.
He also announced plans to liberalise Ethiopia’s retail sector, which remains closed to foreign ownership.
MG/as/APA