Ethiopia begins export of goods under AfCFTA trade framework

ETHIOPIA – Ethiopia has marked a major step in its economic growth by officially starting the export of goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.

The inaugural shipment, made up of meat, fruits, and other farm products, left for Somalia, Kenya, and South Africa through land and air routes. This event signals Ethiopia’s active participation in the continent’s single market and shows its readiness to expand trade within Africa.

During a ceremony held in Addis Ababa, Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Goffe called the launch a “major milestone in Ethiopia’s trade journey”. He said it represents the country’s growing involvement in one of the world’s largest trade arrangements.

The AfCFTA, created in 2018 under the African Union (AU), brings together 55 countries with a population of more than 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding 3.4 trillion USD. 

Kassahun highlighted that Ethiopia, as Africa’s second most populous nation and an important entry point to the Horn of Africa, stands to gain through wider market access, more export options, and fewer trade restrictions.

“The AfCFTA is more than a trade agreement,” Kassahun said. “It is a cornerstone of Africa’s Agenda 2063, advancing our shared vision of a prosperous, integrated, and peaceful continent.”

The agreement aims to increase trade between African countries, boost manufacturing competitiveness, and promote sustainable growth across the continent.

Ethiopia’s leadership in regional trade

Prosperity Party Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister Adem Farah said the event goes beyond just exporting goods.

“This ceremony is not merely about commencing trade,” Adem said. “It reaffirms Ethiopia’s vanguard role in African affairs – now in trade and economic integration – and strengthens our partnership with our African brothers and sisters.”

He added that African nations must continue to strengthen cooperation through fair trade and shared economic progress. “Our national vision of building an Ethiopia where holistic prosperity prevails cannot be achieved in isolation,” he said. 

“The 21st century demands interconnected markets, efficient logistics, and regional value chains that deliver tangible benefits to our citizens.”

Commitment to continental progress

Adem noted that Ethiopia’s move from policy approval to actual trade shows the government’s consistency in turning commitments into results. AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene praised the country’s progress, calling it “not only a national milestone but also a testament to Africa’s determination to turn the AfCFTA from vision into reality.”

He commended Ethiopia’s political commitment and coordination, noting that its participation will strengthen value addition, stimulate industry, and deepen integration with the rest of Africa.

The launch follows Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to improve export logistics, promote agribusiness, and align trade systems with AfCFTA requirements, ensuring that local producers gain better access to regional markets.

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