Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (U.S. Embassy) – Minister of Trade and Industry Girma Birru and U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Donald Yamamoto today joined the board of the newly established American Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia for the organization’s official launch. The American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Ethiopia aims to promote economic development by strengthening Ethiopian-American business partnerships and trade and investment between the two countries.

At the launch, AmCham President Getachew Ayele, said, “AmCham Ethiopia is committed to supporting Ethiopia’s development ambitions by promoting two-way trade and investment relations between Ethiopia and the United States.” He pledged that AmCham would foster a positive environment for the business communities in both countries, and work to bring commercial relations to their full potential.

U.S. Ambassador Donald Yamamoto praised the newly formed organization, saying, “The establishment of an American Chamber will create a new paradigm for how we do business in Ethiopia. This is a milestone in our two countries’ partnership, and it shows our commitment to a more prosperous tomorrow for all Ethiopian citizens.”

American Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AmChams) are voluntary associations of American companies and individuals doing business in a particular country, as well as firms and individuals of that country who operate in the United States.

The American Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia is the fourth AmCham in Sub-Saharan Africa. Ambassador Yamamoto noted at the launch, “The fact that AmCham Ethiopia is only the fourth of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa shows the importance that the United States places on its relationship with Ethiopia.”

AmCham Ethiopia is a not-for-profit, non-political, independent and voluntary business membership organization registered with the Ministry of Justice of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and affiliated with the U.S Chamber of Commerce. It will focus on increasing bilateral trade and investment activity, providing support and services to members businesses, and fostering a favorable business environment. As AmCham President Getachew stated today, “We will work diligently to encourage American investment of all kinds in Ethiopia, while promoting a positive image of our country in the United States.”

Following its official launch, AmCham Ethiopia is actively recruiting new members. Interested parties should contact the AmCham headquarters at 011-553-1990 or AmChamEthiopia@gmail.com.