Djibouti’s geostrategic location at the entrance to the Red Sea makes it a key player in maritime activities and trade, though it remains vulnerable to fluctuations in global trade and Ethiopia’s political and economic stability, as 80% of its port traffic depends on Ethiopian freight. The government continues to implement its National Development Plan (2020-2024) and Vision 2035, both aimed at reinforcing Djibouti’s role as a regional trade and logistics hub.

In terms of financial infrastructure, Djibouti’s payment systems involve the Central Bank of Djibouti (BCD), commercial banks, financial institutions, and PSPs. The BCD has made strides in modernizing the country’s payment systems, introducing the Hybrid National Payment System, which includes both the RTGS and ACH, to enhance financial market efficiency.