EHPEA, Ethiopia Djibouti Railway move to improve horticulture export logistics
The talks signal closer work between growers and rail operators as Ethiopia pushes for smoother farm exports.
ETHIOPIA – Ethiopia’s horticulture exporters are seeking closer ties with rail operators as the country looks to improve the speed and care of fresh produce shipments to overseas markets.
The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association, EHPEA, said its Executive Director Tewodros Zewdie recently met the management team of the Ethiopia Djibouti Railway, EDR, to discuss a business link focused on export logistics for flowers, fruits, and vegetables.
The meeting centered on ways to make transport more reliable for crops that need careful handling and strict temperature control. Both sides reviewed pricing options, technical skills, and long term cooperation to support exporters that depend on timely delivery.
During the talks, EHPEA and EDR reviewed options for special price arrangements aimed at helping Ethiopian produce compete in foreign markets. The discussion also covered joint training efforts to improve how teams handle cold cargo along the rail corridor that links Addis Ababa to the Port of Djibouti.
EHPEA said the railway plays a growing role in moving exports faster and reducing losses. Rail transport offers a stable link for bulk cargo and gives exporters another option alongside road and air freight.
As part of the engagement, EHPEA invited EDR to take part in the next HortiFlora Expo, which will take place in Addis Ababa from March 24 to March 26, 2026. Organizers expect the event to draw growers, buyers, and service providers from across the global horticulture trade.
EHPEA said the expo will give EDR a direct chance to meet exporters, present its services, and build business ties in one setting.
Broader push to modernize agriculture
The logistics talks come as Ethiopia advances wider efforts to improve its agriculture sector. Earlier this month, the Kerchanshe Group and Italian equipment maker McCormick Tractors announced an exclusive distribution deal in Addis Ababa.
Kerchanshe will act as the sole distributor of McCormick tractors in Ethiopia, with responsibility for sales and after sales support through a new Kerchanshe Tractor division. The agreement supports the National Agricultural Mechanization Strategy, which aims to raise output and expand the use of modern farm tools.
“Ethiopia’s agricultural modernization requires robust, reliable, and technologically advanced equipment. This partnership enables the Kerchanshe Group to bring proven, globally respected machinery to farmers and commercial operators nationwide,” said Israel Degefa, Group CEO at Kerchanshe.
Officials estimate that Ethiopia needs to raise the number of tractors in use from about 20,000 to 65,000 units to meet demand.
Together, the rail talks and the tractor deal point to a wider effort to strengthen both production and export systems. Stakeholders say better tools on farms and steadier transport links can help Ethiopian agriculture reach markets faster while keeping quality intact.
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