ADDIS ABABA — Ethiopia has announced plans to begin printing its national currency, the birr, domestically by 2030, in a move authorities say is aimed at reducing reliance on foreign firms and strengthening economic sovereignty.
The plan, led by Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), would end decades of outsourcing the production of Ethiopian banknotes to overseas security printing companies, mainly based in Europe, including the United Kingdom.
Officials say the transition is expected to save the country significant foreign exchange costs. Ethiopia currently spends an estimated $100 million annually on printing and importing its currency, according to government-linked estimates cited in local reports.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the initiative forms part of broader economic reforms aimed at increasing self-reliance, improving control over monetary stability, and reducing dependence on external service providers in key state functions.
EIH officials said preparations are underway to develop the necessary infrastructure, including security printing facilities and technical capacity, ahead of the 2030 target.
Across Africa, several countries still rely on specialised printing firms in Europe for banknotes and security documents, a practice that governments increasingly view as costly and strategically limiting amid growing debates over financial independence.
The announcement comes as Ethiopia continues to pursue wide-ranging economic reforms while managing inflationary pressures and foreign currency shortages.
