Doing business in Ethiopia

If you’ve recently been approached by an Ethiopian company or if you want to do business in Ethiopia, we offer a few tips for you in this article to help you on your way.

Multi-cultural

Ethiopia is a multi-cultural country which contains several religions. Religion is very important and is inextricably connected with everything that happens in the country. The majority of the population are members of the Christian, Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and the rest are either Muslim or practice an ancient form of Judaism. Most of the people who are involved in business, however, are Muslim, and it is important to take that into account during a business trip. This means making sure that you are properly dressed, for instance, and that women are well covered during business meetings, even if it is quite hot. Men should be formally dressed as well. Not just Muslims, but Ethiopian Christians also expect people to be formally and properly dressed.

Family

Everything revolves around the family in Ethiopian society. The family is more important than anything else and it can be the case that your appointment is cancelled because a member of your potential business partner’s family needs his help. It is therefore a good idea to ask after their family and to ask to have your greetings passed on to them. You can also take various gifts suitable for different ages so that your potential client can give them to his family. Make sure that these presents are not too expensive though - that won’t be appreciated. If you are invited to meet your potential business partner’s family, it is a great honour and you cannot refuse it.