Ethiopia-China agricultural alliance accelerates modern farming and empowers local communities: Chinese Expert

Addis Ababa, July 5, 2025 (FMC) — A dynamic agricultural partnership between Ethiopia and China is rapidly advancing the modernization of Ethiopia’s farming sector and contributing to shared prosperity, according to Chinese agricultural specialist Wen Liming.

Wen, an expert in veterinary science and dairy production, underscored that the partnership is already yielding transformative results on the ground, aligning closely with the core principles of the 2024 Beijing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation—shared growth and sustainable development.

“We initiated the China-Ethiopia Agricultural Cooperation Poverty Reduction Demonstration Village in Godino, Adea District,” Wen said, noting that the initiative goes beyond technical input and reflects a commitment to working closely with local communities.

For the past nine months, a team of eight Chinese experts has been supporting agricultural development in Godino, Oromia Region, through a wide range of activities including mushroom cultivation, fruit and vegetable farming, livestock management, mechanized plowing, artificial insemination, and the supply of improved seeds and fertilizers.

The Godino demonstration village is considered a successful model, combining sound agricultural practices, active community participation, and a focus on empowering women.

Wen emphasized that China is deepening its agricultural collaboration with Ethiopia as part of a broader continental strategy to support African agricultural growth. The partnership includes donations of modern agricultural equipment—such as tractors, seedling machines, and milking tools—to multiple demonstration sites across the country.

He also highlighted China’s own path to agricultural transformation, achieved by blending traditional farming knowledge with technological innovation, a model he believes could be relevant to Ethiopia’s context.

“Ethiopia has vast cultivable land, ample water resources, and a youthful population. These are key strengths,” he said.

Beyond technical cooperation, the alliance also encompasses trade facilitation. China now offers zero-tariff access for Ethiopian agricultural exports, including products such as coffee, avocado, beef, and honey. The policy is designed to enhance market access and increase income for Ethiopian farmers.

“We hope that people and investors from both countries will work together to advance agricultural modernization in Ethiopia,” Wen stated. “China welcomes high-quality Ethiopian agricultural products and is providing tariff-free trade opportunities for all African nations, especially Ethiopia.”

The collaboration stands as a strong example of mutual growth, knowledge exchange, and agricultural progress—contributing to Ethiopia’s food security, economic development, and regional advancement.