Ethiopia’s trade sector has shown remarkable growth, with foreign trade volumes reaching USD 4.5 billion in just the first eight months of the current fiscal year. This represents a significant leap from the USD 2.6 billion recorded for the entire year in 2010, highlighting the country’s expanding economic footprint.  

Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Gofe (PhD) shared these figures during a stakeholder forum discussing Ethiopia’s draft trade policy. The government has set an ambitious target to surpass USD 6 billion in total trade by the end of the fiscal year, building on current momentum.  

A key development in Ethiopia’s trade landscape is the creation of its first comprehensive trade policy framework. For years, the country operated without a formal trade policy, but after extensive efforts, officials have now prepared a draft document to guide future commerce.  

The ministry has also been busy implementing structural reforms, including issuing 2.5 million new business licenses to stimulate entrepreneurship. To boost consumer access and commercial activity, authorities have established over 1,300 weekend shopping malls across the country.  

In a major push for quality control, Ethiopia has invested ETB 8.2 billion to build a state-of-the-art Quality Assurance Center. This facility will monitor more than 4.5 million tons of imported and exported goods annually, ensuring standards compliance.  

Minister Kassahun connected these developments to Ethiopia’s broader macroeconomic reforms and its bid to join the World Trade Organization. He expressed confidence that the new trade policy demonstrates the country’s readiness for WTO membership while aiming to create a more competitive and sustainable trade environment.  

The draft trade policy specifically focuses on facilitating regional economic integration, reflecting Ethiopia’s growing role as a commercial hub in East Africa. These collective efforts represent a comprehensive approach to modernizing Ethiopia’s trade ecosystem and positioning the country for greater global economic engagement.