U.S. – Djibouti Trade & Investment Mission
April 8–16, 2025
Expanding Business, Strengthening Partnerships, and Unlocking New Markets!
The Minnesota Institute of Horn of Africa Studies (MNIHAS), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Djibouti in Washington, D.C., is organizing a U.S. business delegation to explore exceptional trade, investment, and partnership opportunities in East Africa’s strategic gateway—the Republic of Djibouti.
The U.S.-Djibouti Trade Mission seeks to forge strong business partnerships between U.S. and Djibouti companies, establishing official economic ties and expanding market access for U.S. businesses. This initiative positions U.S. companies to access East Africa’s 400-million-consumer market through Djibouti’s strategic location.
The mission also connects U.S. businesses and African diaspora-led enterprises—primarily from Minnesota, Ohio, and Washington—with emerging opportunities in Djibouti. The delegation will enhance the capacity of diaspora businesses to expand into international markets, establish strategic alliances, and drive economic development.
Additional Strategic Goals
- Expanding Sister-City and Institutional Relationships – Establishing and strengthening sister-city partnerships and academic collaborations to promote cultural ties, economic cooperation, research exchange, and capacity-building initiatives between the U.S. and Djibouti.
- Strengthening Business Partnerships – Building connections between U.S.-based diaspora businesses, corporate enterprises, educational institutions, and Djibouti companies to foster long-term economic collaboration.
Key Sectors
Transport & Logistics
Renewable Energy
Information Technology
Real Estate
Tourism
Agriculture
Financial Services
Medical Tourism
Delegation Benefits
U.S. companies participating in this delegation will gain direct access to key decision-makers through pre-arranged meetings with government officials, local business leaders, and potential partners. These high-level connections will streamline market entry, facilitate business negotiations, and accelerate opportunities for strategic partnerships in Djibouti.
The Minnesota State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Trade Office (MTO) under the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), offers financial and technical assistance to qualifying Minnesota small businesses aiming to export their products or services to foreign markets. The program provides a 50% matching grant, with a maximum reimbursement of $7,500 per fiscal year. MN.GOV
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Key Activities:
Why Djibouti?
Djibouti is a prime location for trade and investment due to its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and business-friendly environment. It serves as a major gateway to East Africa, facilitating global trade through its world-class port and free trade zones. The country offers political stability, strong logistics networks, and opportunities in energy, technology, and education. Additionally, it hosts the only permanent U.S. military base in Africa, enhancing security and international partnerships. Djibouti presents vast potential for business expansion, academic collaboration, and economic growth between the U.S. and East Africa.
