Ethiopia's gold mining boom fuels record sales of Korean excavator

By Lee Nak-yeong Posted : November 6, 2025, 14:43 Updated : November 6, 2025, 15:33
HD Hyundai Infracore's 36-ton Develon excavator, a key model in Ethiopia
HD Hyundai Infracore's DX360 excavator/ Courtesy of HD Hyundai Infracore


SEOUL, November 06 (AJP) - HD Hyundai Infracore said on Thursday that sales of its construction equipment in Ethiopia have risen nearly fivefold this year, propelled by a surge in gold mining activity.

The company’s Develon brand sold about 1,300 machines in 2025, a 470 percent increase from a year earlier. Much of that growth came from the popularity of its 36-ton excavator, the DX360, which accounted for roughly 90 percent of total sales, or more than 1,100 units.

Ethiopia’s rapidly expanding mining sector has been a key driver. A government report in September said the industry grew by 162 percent in the 2024–25 fiscal year, with gold exports climbing to a record $3.4 billion.

To strengthen its foothold, HD Hyundai Infracore has expanded its local network through the “Develon Care” program, which provides regular inspections, training for dealer engineers and after-sales support. The company said the initiative has helped build customer trust and improved its ability to respond to market needs.

* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.

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