Ethiopian Soymeal Gets Green Light for China Market

China has approved imports of soybean meal from Ethiopia, opening the door for new agricultural trade between the two countries as Beijing seeks to diversify its protein sources amid ongoing global supply risks, according to Reuters.

The announcement, made public by China’s General Administration of Customs, allows Ethiopian soymeal to enter the world’s largest animal feed market, provided it meets required quarantine and inspection standards.

Ethiopia becomes the latest in a short list of African countries cleared to supply soy-based products to China. While export volumes are expected to be modest initially, the move marks a significant step for Ethiopia’s export diversification efforts.

China imported more than 78 million metric tons of soybeans in 2024, mostly from Brazil, the United States and Argentina. As it looks to reduce overdependence on traditional suppliers, Beijing has been expanding sourcing agreements with emerging economies in Africa and Latin America. The move is part of China’s strategic push to diversify its protein-feed sources, reducing reliance on major exporters like the U.S. and Brazil. The approval comes with phytosanitary requirements, ensuring the soymeal is pest-free..

For Ethiopia, the approval comes as the country implements a series of market-oriented reforms aimed at boosting exports and attracting foreign investment.