Ethiopia is taking a notable step in the transformation of its consumer economy as Carrefour prepares to enter the country through a partnership with Queens Supermarket, an Ethiopian retail chain owned by Midroc Investment Group, the conglomerate of Ethiopian-Saudi billionaire Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi.
The move underscores Ethiopia’s growing openness to foreign participation in sectors that were once tightly regulated, reflecting broader reforms aimed at modernising the economy and strengthening domestic markets. Under the agreement, Carrefour will expand its franchise by rebranding and operating Queens’ existing supermarket outlets, with the first stores expected to adopt the Carrefour name by the end of June.
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Patrick Lasfargues, chief executive of Carrefour International Partnership, said Ethiopia represents a strategically important market for the group. Beyond the conversion of 13 existing stores, the partners are planning continued expansion, with 17 additional outlets projected by 2028.
Ethiopia’s decision to open its retail sector builds on reforms launched under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who since 2018 has overseen the gradual liberalisation of key industries, including telecommunications and banking. Retail trade, long protected from foreign ownership, is now emerging as part of this wider economic shift.
Economists say the entry of an international retailer could help elevate standards in Ethiopia’s retail landscape, improving supply chains, logistics and product availability while supporting competition. For a country of more than 130 million people, rising urbanisation and a growing middle class are reshaping consumer demand.
The expansion is also expected to generate jobs, introduce international retail expertise and create stronger links between Ethiopian farmers, manufacturers and organised retail networks. By connecting local production to structured distribution channels, Ethiopia aims to improve food quality, reduce waste and expand opportunities for domestic suppliers.
As Ethiopia continues to recalibrate its economic model, the arrival of Carrefour signals confidence in the country’s reform trajectory and highlights its ambition to build a modern, competitive retail sector aligned with long-term development goals.
