+251 22 21 21 121, +251 22 21 22 692 Adama City, Melka Adama Sub-City, Abba Gada Oromia, Ethiopia
The First
Economic Zone in Ethiopia

Regulation

Key Points: Regulation to Establish the Gada Special Economic Zone Development Corporation, No. 228/2022

(From Regulation-no.228-2022.pdf)

  • Establishes the Gada Special Economic Zone Development Corporation under Oromia Regional Government.
  • Purpose: To develop, administer, and promote the Gada Special Economic Zone efficiently and competitively.
  • Defines the Corporation’s structure: Board of Directors, General Manager, and Deputy Managers.
  • Focus areas:
    • Develop infrastructure (roads, electricity, water, telecom) within the Zone.
    • Support local farmers and communities by offering project participation.
    • Facilitate investments and create a favorable environment for domestic and foreign investors.
    • Manage land allocations, build industrial, commercial, and residential facilities.
    • Set and implement standards for developers, enterprises, and investors.
  • Encourages the use of local raw materials and supports technology transfer and industrialization.
  • Establishes a One-Stop Service Center to assist investors and enterprises operating within the Zone.
  • Aims to create employment opportunities and enhance regional economic benefits.

Learn more about the Gada Special Economic Zone and its legal framework: download to Regulation No. 228/2022.

Powerful Incentives Under Regulation No. 517/2022

The Investment Incentive Regulation No. 517/2022 provides robust legal backing for a wide array of tax and customs benefits to both foreign and domestic investors. Aligned with Ethiopia’s long-term growth vision, this regulation ensures transparency, predictability, and competitiveness in the investment environment.

Key Features for Investors:

  • Full Customs Duty Exemption
    Investors receive 100% exemption on import duties for capital goods, construction materials, and spare parts used for eligible investment projects.
  • Income Tax Holiday
    Qualifying investments benefit from income tax exemptions ranging from 3 to 15 years, depending on the sector and location.
  • Additional Tax Privileges
    Investors may receive extended tax holidays for reinvested profits or new investment expansions.
  • Duty-Free Privileges for Exporters
    Manufacturers who export at least 60% of their output can import raw materials duty-free for use in export production.
  • Customs Support for Industrial Parks and SEZs
    Industrial park developers and enterprises operating in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are eligible for enhanced exemptions and facilitation services.