NBE Digitizes Account Number Issuance for New Importers, Exporters Through Customs Single Window

Addis Ababa, July 18, 2026 (FMC) — The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has digitized the issuance of account numbers for newly licensed importers and exporters through the Ethiopia Customs Commission’s Electronic Single Window (eSW), introducing a new service aimed at simplifying trade procedures and accelerating processing.

In a statement issued on Friday, the central bank said the new digital service, launched in collaboration with the Ethiopia Customs Commission, enables first-time importers and exporters to obtain NBE Account Numbers seamlessly through the Customs Electronic Single Window, reducing administrative procedures and improving processing efficiency.

According to the statement, the service is available only to newly licensed importers and exporters applying for an NBE Account Number for the first time.

The central bank noted that businesses already assigned an NBE Account Number should continue using their existing number for all import and export transactions.

NBE said the initiative forms part of its ongoing efforts to modernize trade-related services, improve the ease of doing business, and strengthen the delivery of digital public services in Ethiopia.