Core Viewpoint - Ethiopia is considering a significant policy shift by potentially allowing foreign individuals and companies to directly own real estate for the first time since 1974, which could enhance economic reforms and attract international capital [1][3] Group 1: Policy Changes - The Ethiopian government has proposed a draft law to lift the long-standing ban on foreign ownership of real estate, which has been in place since 1974 [1] - If approved, this reform aims to stimulate housing supply, activate private capital, create job opportunities, and provide a stable source for foreign exchange reserves [3] Group 2: Market Trends - The real estate market in Ethiopia has become increasingly vibrant over the past decade, particularly in Addis Ababa, driven by rising demand for housing and commercial properties [2] - The market is expected to grow at an annual rate of nearly 10% from 2024 to 2028, with key trends including a surge in demand for affordable housing and a rise in integrated development projects [2] Group 3: Challenges and Considerations - Despite the potential benefits, the real estate market faces challenges such as financing difficulties for developers, reliance on imported construction materials, and complex approval processes [2][4] - The actual impact of the proposed reforms will depend on the specifics of the final legal text and the government's execution transparency [4] - Observers caution that a rapid influx of capital into high-end projects without proper regulatory measures could exacerbate housing affordability issues for lower-income groups [4] Group 4: Investment Sentiment - Investment confidence is beginning to recover, with developers from the Middle East, Turkey, and South Africa reassessing their commercial real estate projects in Ethiopian cities [5] - If the government can enhance certainty in the law's details and improve transparency in land use rights, Ethiopia could become a significant destination for real estate capital in Africa within the next three to five years [5]
【财经分析】埃塞俄比亚拟开放外资进入房地产市场 亟需完善配套政策防范风险
Xin Hua Cai Jing·2025-05-13 23:29