@EthiopiaTourism – Ethiopian Business Review

Ethiopia is set to revamp its outdated tourism policy in a bold move to elevate its standing on the world stage and unlock the sector’s untapped economic potential. The Ministry of Tourism revealed plans for a comprehensive update to the 13-year-old framework, aiming to align it with modern trends, digital innovations, and sustainable practices that define today’s global tourism industry, according to the state-run Ethiopian Press Agency.

At a recent stakeholder meeting, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa underscored the urgency of modernization, pointing to Ethiopia’s wealth of historical, cultural, and natural attractions that remain underutilized. “Our current policy no longer reflects the dynamic shifts in global tourism,” she said. “A revised approach will not only enhance our international competitiveness but also drive domestic tourism and amplify economic returns.”

The proposed overhaul seeks to address critical gaps, including low investment, workforce limitations, and weak global market positioning. Yezihalem Sisay, a senior ministry official, acknowledged that despite Ethiopia’s vast potential—from the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the Simien Mountains—the sector has struggled to compete with other African destinations. “This new policy will allow us to develop destinations more strategically, diversify attractions, and forge stronger market linkages,” he explained.

Key focuses of the updated policy include integrating digital tools to streamline tourism services, promoting eco-friendly travel practices, and improving governance to attract higher investment. Stakeholders at the consultation echoed the need for robust promotional campaigns and inclusive planning to ensure long-term success.

Ethiopia’s negotiating team has returned from the 5th Working Group Meeting for WTO Membership in Geneva, Switzerland, after securing significant progress in the country’s long-awaited bid to join the global trade body. Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Dr. Kassahun Gofe, addressed the media in a press conference today, highlighting the fruitful outcomes of the meeting.

Dr. Gofe emphasized that Ethiopia’s successful participation was the result of thorough preparation, recognizing the hard work required for WTO negotiations. At the meeting, Ethiopia received support from 19 countries, signaling increasing global confidence in the country’s reform efforts. “We have not only created a platform to achieve WTO membership in a short time, but we’ve also earned the trust of the organization’s members,” Dr. Gofe stated.

The Minister also explained that Ethiopia’s lengthy application process, which has taken over two decades, was due to the country’s previous “very protectionist” economic policies. “You can’t access WTO membership by closing the economy to foreign players,” he said. Dr. Gofe highlighted that the ongoing economic reforms in Ethiopia, which have opened the country up to foreign investment and trade, are pivotal to securing membership.

Looking ahead, Dr. Gofe emphasized the national benefits that WTO membership will bring. While there may be some initial impact on government revenue, he assured that it would not harm the economy. “Beyond this, it will expand the market for Ethiopia’s products,” he said, reinforcing the long-term advantages of global trade integration. He confirmed that the country is working toward full membership at the WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon in 2026, with the 6th Working Group Meeting set for July.

The U.S. Department of State has issued an updated travel advisory for Ethiopia, maintaining a Level 3 status—”Reconsider Travel.” This level indicates that the country presents significant risks that travelers should carefully consider before making travel plans. The U.S. government uses a tiered system to categorize countries based on their safety for U.S. citizens, with the advisory levels ranging from 1 to 4.

Level 1, “Exercise Normal Precautions,” is assigned to countries considered generally safe for travel. In these countries, U.S. citizens are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions. Countries with a Level 1 status typically experience stable political situations, low crime rates, and minimal health risks.

Level 2, “Exercise Increased Caution,” is issued when there are specific concerns in a country, such as political instability or heightened crime rates, but these factors do not pose an immediate threat to travelers. While these countries are still generally safe, travelers are encouraged to remain informed and avoid specific regions where risks may be present.

Ethiopia’s travel advisory falls under Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” due to ongoing security risks. The U.S. Department of State highlights concerns over armed conflict and civil unrest in regions like Amhara and parts of Oromia, where clashes between government forces and local militias have caused instability. There are also concerns about crime, including kidnappings, in areas such as Gambela and Benishangul Gumuz. Additionally, border areas with Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia are flagged due to potential threats from terrorism and landmines.

Countries placed under Level 4, “Do Not Travel,” are considered extremely dangerous, and the U.S. government advises against all travel to these locations. This level is reserved for countries experiencing active armed conflict, widespread violence, or serious health crises that pose significant risks to travelers.

While Ethiopia remains under a Level 3 advisory, officials have repeatedly criticized these warnings, arguing that they misrepresent the current situation and harm the country’s tourism industry.

Ethiopia Overhauls Tourism Policy to Boost Global Appeal and Economic Growth

Ethiopia’s WTO Membership Bid Gains Momentum with Support from 19 Countries

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