Ethiopia’s World Trade Organization Accession Sees Optimistic Progress

ADDIS ABABA – The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced today that Ethiopia’s efforts to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) are advancing positively. During a briefing with the chairpersons of the Standing Committee of the House of People’s Representatives, State Minister Kassahun Gofe highlighted the significance of WTO membership in broadening Ethiopia’s international trade horizons.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the accession process had faced numerous challenges and delays over the years, despite Ethiopia’s longstanding ambition to join the WTO. However, the renewed focus and initiative from the current government have injected momentum into the negotiations, demonstrating encouraging advancements since last year. The ministry’s briefing aimed to garner the House’s support to navigate and resolve potential hurdles in the accession journey.

Ethiopia’s formal pursuit of WTO membership began two decades ago but encountered several impediments that stalled its progress. The country reinvigorated its accession efforts in 2020, which culminated in a positive response during the 4th WTO meeting that year, where member countries expressed unanimous backing for Ethiopia’s application. The ongoing negotiations and international support underscore Ethiopia’s commitment to integrating more fully into the global trading system.