Addis Insight, 9 Octobre 2025

Ethiopia officially launches first trade under African free trade area

Ethiopia marked a historic milestone today with the official launch of its first trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a move expected to boost the country’s regional trade integration and export potential.

The launch ceremony took place in Addis Ababa and was attended by several senior government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Prosperity Party Vice President Adem Farah, Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime (PhD), and Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe (PhD).

Strengthening Ethiopia’s Export Trade

Speaking at the event, Kassahun Gofe emphasized that joining the AfCFTA is a strategic step toward accelerating Ethiopia’s export growth and strengthening its role in the regional market.

“The African Free Trade Area will play a significant role in facilitating Ethiopia’s export trade and contributing to the modernization and competitiveness of our trade sector, ” Kassahun stated.

The AfCFTA aims to create a single continental market, allowing the free movement of goods and services, with the ultimate goal of fostering economic integration across Africa. For Ethiopia, which has been working to expand its export base, the agreement presents new opportunities to diversify trade partners and increase foreign exchange earnings.

First Export Shipment

To mark the launch, Ethiopia sent its first shipment of goods to neighboring and regional markets. The consignment included meat, vegetables and fruits, coffee, pulses, and oilseeds—key export commodities for the country. The goods were transported to Kenya, Somalia, and South Africa through Ethiopian Airlines cargo services and land routes.

Officials underscored that this first trade is more than symbolic: it signals Ethiopia’s readiness to compete in the continental market, improve logistics efficiency, and align its trade infrastructure with AfCFTA protocols.

Broader Economic Impact

The AfCFTA is expected to boost intra-African trade by reducing tariffs, simplifying customs procedures, and encouraging investment flows. For Ethiopia, the agreement could enhance value-added exports, stimulate job creation, and strengthen its integration into the global value chain through African partnerships.

Government officials also highlighted ongoing reforms in logistics, customs, and infrastructure aimed at making Ethiopia a more competitive and reliable trading hub in the Horn of Africa.