Addis Ababa, December 27, 2025 (FMC) — A major trade promotion conference is underway in Hunan Province, China, with a focus on increasing the export of Ethiopian specialty coffee to the large Chinese market.
Hosted in Zhuzhou City, the event aims to introduce Ethiopia’s distinct specialty coffee flavors to over 700,000 people, officials said.
The initiative reflects the growing trade relationship between the two nations, as China has rapidly risen among Ethiopian coffee importers, moving from the 33rd largest destination five years ago to the 4th largest market this year.
The conference, organized by the Ethio-China Friendship Committee, is designed to enhance bilateral economic cooperation.
High-ranking Chinese officials, including the Mayor of Zhuzhou City, are attending the event to support the collaboration.
Representing the Ethiopian delegation are Tefera Derbew, Ethiopian Ambassador to China; Ifa Muleta, State Minister of Agriculture; Tesfahun Gobezay, State Minister of Government Communication Service; and Adugna Debela, Director General of the Coffee and Tea Authority. They are joined by various regional leaders and stakeholders.
The push for increased market share follows last year’s success, during which Ethiopia exported more than 35,000 tons of coffee to China.
Officials said the latest promotional effort in Hunan will serve as a strategic bridge to deepen commercial ties and ensure that Ethiopian coffee remains a preferred choice for Chinese consumers.