But those are countries with already emerging or established middle classes. Even more interesting is the possibility of foreign retail getting a foothold in Ethiopia, which is launching a state-run wholesale company, Alle, which it plans to run as a private company, with the help of a more experienced foreign manager. Ethiopia has sub-Saharan Africa's fifth largest economy, but previously has barred foreign entities from involvement in many industries, including banking, though some international conglomerates including H&M have manufacturing facilities. Walmart, which acquired South African general merchandise chain Massmart Holdings in 2012, did hold talks with then-Prime Minister Meles Zenawi the previous year.