Ethiopia's Currency Shake-Up: Bridging Gaps for Economic Stability

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has justified the switch to a market-determined foreign exchange rate to close the gap between official and black market rates. The change, which does not constitute a devaluation, has had an impact on the birr, leading to new financial support from the IMF and other creditors.

In a move aimed at bridging disparities between official and black market rates, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has defended the country's transition to a market-determined foreign exchange rate this week, clarifying it does not signify a devaluation of the birr.

The central bank's decision to allow the birr to float freely on Monday has since caused the currency to drop 31.5% against the dollar, trading at 83.94 per greenback, according to the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. This decline has sparked concerns over potential inflationary pressures.

Despite worries about rising prices, the policy has secured financial backing from the IMF and the World Bank, setting the stage for Ethiopia's long-delayed debt restructuring. The private sector is expected to benefit, contributing more significantly to the country's economic growth.

(With inputs from agencies.)