The India-Ethiopia SME Business Forum & Expo 2025 commenced today at PHD House, New Delhi, marking a vibrant start to the three-day event aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and trade ties between the two nations. Inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Fesseha Shawel Gebre, Ambassador of Ethiopia to India, the expo brings together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore synergies in healthcare, innovation, trade, and small and medium enterprise (SME) development. The forum, organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), features 35 exhibitors—including 20 from Ethiopia and 15 from India—showcasing a diverse array of products, services, and innovations that underline the growing economic convergence between India and Ethiopia.
Celebrating Shared History, Forging Future Partnerships
In his inaugural address, Ambassador Fesseha Shawel Gebre highlighted the long-standing and cordial relations between India and Ethiopia, tracing their ties to shared cultural and historical roots. He emphasized the importance of mutual economic cooperation and praised the growing involvement of SMEs in driving innovation and inclusive growth. “India and Ethiopia have always shared a special bond rooted in history and mutual respect. Our collaboration has extended into key sectors such as education, agriculture, and healthcare, and it’s heartening to see this spirit thrive through such platforms,” said Ambassador Gebre.
Focus on Healthcare and Innovation
Delivering the industry perspective, Mr. Dalip Chopra, Co-Chair, the International Affairs Committee for Africa, PHDCCI, shed light on the immense potential for collaboration in the healthcare sector. He underscored opportunities in medical technology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare capacity building, stressing the critical role of public-private partnerships in delivering accessible and quality care across borders. “India’s affordable healthcare innovations and Ethiopia’s growing healthcare needs create a fertile ground for joint ventures, knowledge transfer, and training programs,” he noted.
Chamber Leaders Share Strategic Insights
Dr. Ranjeet Mehta, CEO & Secretary General, PHDCCI, thanked the Ambassador for his support and shared details about the Chamber’s initiatives to promote trade and investment between India and Africa. He reiterated the Chamber’s commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable partnerships. Meanwhile, Mr. Naveen Seth, Deputy Secretary General, PHDCCI, welcomed the Ethiopian delegation and provided a comprehensive overview of the Chamber’s international outreach programs. He emphasized the significance of platforms like the SME Forum in building bridges between business communities of both countries.
Exhibition Highlights
The expo floor bustled with activity as exhibitors from Ethiopia and India presented a variety of offerings spanning agribusiness, healthcare solutions, handicrafts, information technology, and consumer goods. Ambassador Gebre personally visited several booths, engaging with participants and appreciating the innovation and dedication on display. From Ethiopian organic coffee producers to Indian diagnostic technology startups, the exhibition reflected a mutual interest in technology exchange, trade diversification, and SME empowerment.
Strengthening SME Ecosystems
The event concludes on April 17, 2025, with planned B2B meetings, panel discussions, and networking sessions, expected to yield new business leads and collaborative ventures. Organizers hope that the expo will catalyze not just economic partnerships but also a deeper cultural and people-to-people exchange. Akhil Jain, Co-Chair, the International Affairs Committee for Africa, PHDCCI, delivered the formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chamber team, partners, and all participants for their enthusiastic involvement. “This forum is a step forward in building a resilient and inclusive trade ecosystem between India and Ethiopia. The energy here is a testament to what we can achieve together,” Jain remarked.
The India-Ethiopia SME Forum & Expo 2025 stands as a testament to the strengthening of South-South cooperation, with SMEs at the forefront of an evolving economic partnership.
