Ethiopia's parliament has passed legislation on Tuesday opening the East African country's banking sector to foreign competition, a key step in the government's broader effort to attract foreign investment.
The move allows foreign banks to establish subsidiaries, branches, or representative offices, and acquire up to 40% ownership in local banks. This marks a significant liberalization of Ethiopia's previously tightly controlled economy, a process underway since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took office in 2018.
While the parliament overwhelmingly approved the law, some opposition members voiced concerns about the potential impact on domestic banks. However, the governor of the central bank, Mamo Mihretu, argued that increased competition will ultimately strengthen Ethiopian lenders.
This reform follows Ethiopia's recent securing of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) support program and the subsequent floating of its birr currency – key components of the IMF's recommendations. Other reforms included the adoption of an interest rate-based monetary policy.