Ethiopia’s exports reach $7.21 billion in 11 months, exceeding target by 157%

Addis Ababa, June 19, 2025 (FMC) — The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) announced a significant boost in export earnings and trade facilitation reforms as it presented its 11-month performance report for the 2024/25 fiscal year to the House of People’s Representatives this morning.

Minister Kassahun Goffe, delivering the report during the House’s 38th regular session, highlighted key achievements that demonstrate the Ministry’s progress in supporting Ethiopia’s economic transformation.

According to the Minister, Ethiopia earned 7.21 billion US dollars from exports over the past 11 months — a 157.26% achievement of the Ministry’s original target of 4.59 billion dollars.

Compared to the same period last fiscal year, this marks a 121.48% increase, or nearly 4 billion dollars in additional earnings, the minister pointed out.

The Ministry attributed this performance to an integrated approach that combines digital service delivery, improved market linkages, and enhanced trade oversight. Through its online business registration and licensing platform, the Ministry facilitated 2.97 million registrations across the country, significantly reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and customer costs.

To ensure regulatory compliance, MoTRI also implemented a post-license inspection system, carrying out 2.55 million inspections nationwide. Meanwhile, the number of weekend shopping centers — venues that connect local producers directly with consumers — grew from 1,066 to 1,493, supporting inclusive market access.

Minister Kassahun also emphasized Ethiopia’s growing prominence in trade quality infrastructure. The National Quality Village, inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on November 23, 2024, has emerged as a leader in Africa and is gaining international competitiveness.

On the continental stage, Ethiopia is advancing its implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and is nearing the launch of a Guided Trade Initiative, which will operationalize aspects of the agreement.

At the multilateral level, the country is making steady progress in its accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The 5th Working Party meeting was successfully completed, and preparations are nearly finalized for the 6th meeting scheduled for July.

The Ministry’s comprehensive reforms and performance highlight Ethiopia’s ongoing commitment to modernizing trade, strengthening quality standards, expanding market access, and boosting export competitiveness — critical components for sustained economic growth and global integration.