Ethiopia Officially Begins Export of Goods Under AfCFTA Trade Framework

Ethiopia has reached a historic milestone by officially commencing exports of goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, a move that underscores the nation’s growing participation in Africa’s economic integration agenda.

The first shipment, consisting of meat, fruits, and other agricultural products, was dispatched to Somalia, Kenya, and South Africa through both land and air routes. The development marks Ethiopia’s formal entry into the continent’s unified trade system and highlights its readiness to leverage the AfCFTA’s vast market opportunities.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Thursday, Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Goffe hailed the event as “a major milestone in Ethiopia’s trade journey” and a demonstration of the country’s readiness to participate meaningfully in one of the world’s most ambitious trade initiatives.

The AfCFTA, established under the African Union (AU) framework in 2018, seeks to create a single continental market for goods and services, ensuring free movement of people, capital, and investments across Africa. Once fully implemented, it will unite 55 AU member states, representing a combined population of over 1.5 billion people and a collective GDP exceeding $3.4 trillion.

Kassahun emphasized that Ethiopia, Africa’s second most populous country and a strategic gateway to the Horn of Africa stands to benefit immensely from expanded market access, export diversification, and the elimination of trade barriers.

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

Deputy Prime Minister Adem Farah echoed this sentiment, noting that the launch symbolizes more than a commercial breakthrough.

“This ceremony is not merely about commencing trade,” Farah 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.”

AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene congratulated Ethiopia on the achievement, describing it as a milestone for the entire continent and a clear signal that Africa’s integration agenda is gaining real momentum.

“Ethiopia’s participation is not only a national milestone but a testament to Africa’s determination to turn the AfCFTA from vision into reality,” Mene said.

The AfCFTA is widely regarded as a catalyst for intra-African trade, industrialisation, and inclusive growth, expected to lift millions out of poverty and accelerate the continent’s journey toward economic sovereignty.