Addis Ababa, December 11, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia is making decisive progress toward joining the World Trade Organization (WTO), Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh said, highlighting the nation’s ongoing negotiations and recent achievements in trade reforms.
The remarks were made at a national forum focused on Ethiopia’s WTO accession, which brought together government officials, private sector representatives, and key stakeholders. The event showcased the country’s efforts to align its trade policies with international standards and advance integration into the global trading system.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen noted that, although Ethiopia has been a founding member of many major international organizations, it has remained outside the WTO for decades.
“A nation of Ethiopia’s population, promise, and economic potential should not stand apart from the international trading system. Our rightful place is at the table, shaping the rules, expanding opportunity, and ensuring our people can compete, innovate, and prosper on a global stage,” he said.
He emphasized that, thanks to the government’s resolute leadership and ongoing homegrown economic reforms, negotiations that had languished for more than two decades have entered a decisive phase.
“The remarkable progress achieved in just the past seven months is a clear signal that we are, at long last, approaching the finish line,” he added.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen highlighted the benefits of WTO membership, noting that it will expand market access, enhance transparency and predictability in trade and investment, and position Ethiopia as a reliable partner in global trade.
He also stressed that membership will reinforce economic discipline, strengthen institutions, and ensure that domestic reforms are ambitious, stable, and credible.
Calling for a united national effort, he urged all stakeholders to actively contribute: “I call on the private sector to bring its full energy and expertise, on all executive institutions to rise to the task, and on our international partners to continue deepening their support.”
Concluding his address, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to completing WTO negotiations swiftly and fully integrating into the global trading system.
“Through united effort, we will integrate Ethiopia into global trade and usher her into a new era of prosperity. Together, we will cross the final mile—and open a new chapter of shared opportunity, shared confidence, and shared success for Ethiopia,” he said.