WTO Accession Progress Intensifies as Ethiopia Presents Updated Commitments in Geneva Meeting

Addis Ababa, April 22, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s progress in its accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO) has intensified as updated commitments were presented during the 7th Working Party Meeting currently underway in Geneva, Switzerland.

In his opening statement, Ethiopia’s Chief WTO Accession Negotiator and Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe expressed appreciation to the Chair of the Working Party, WTO Members, and the Secretariat for their continued support and engagement in advancing Ethiopia’s accession process.

He stated that since the 6th Working Party Meeting held in September 2025, Ethiopia has made significant progress on the multilateral track, including the submission of more than 226 comprehensive responses to outstanding questions, refinement of the Draft Working Party Report, and incorporation of 32 specific commitment provisions.

The Chief Negotiator also noted that Ethiopia has concluded bilateral market access negotiations with nine WTO member countries.

He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to addressing remaining issues raised by members through substantive engagement and constructive participation.

Mr. Kassahun further emphasized that Ethiopia is now more prepared than ever to join the multilateral trading system, supported by comprehensive macroeconomic reforms that have expanded trade and investment opportunities for both domestic and foreign investors.

The Working Party session is scheduled to continue throughout the day and resume on the following day, according to information from the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration.