Addis Ababa, 20 June 2025 (ECA) – The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia today validated its National African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Implementation Strategy at a high-level workshop organized by the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI), with technical support from the Policy Studies Institute (PSI) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).
Held at the Hilton Hotel in Addis Ababa, the validation workshop brought together senior government officials, representatives of the AfCFTA Secretariat, the private sector, development partners, and technical experts to review and endorse the Strategy that will guide Ethiopia’s implementation of the AfCFTA.
In his opening address, H.E. Dr. Kassahun Gofe, Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, underscored that the Strategy reflects Ethiopia’s clear shift from a historically cautious trade posture to a bold, opportunity-driven approach to continental integration. “This is not a ceremonial milestone; it is a call to action,” he affirmed. The Minister emphasized that Ethiopia’s liberalization efforts, including reforms in banking, telecom, and logistics, are aligned with the strategic objectives of the AfCFTA and the country’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda (HEGER 2.0).
The Strategy prioritizes key sectors such as agro-processing, textiles, leather, and services, and integrates cross-cutting themes like digital trade, gender inclusion, SME support, and institutional coordination. With an impressive GDP growth of 8.1% in the 2023/24 fiscal year and a historic export performance exceeding USD 8 billion, Ethiopia stands at a pivotal moment to leverage the AfCFTA for deeper trade integration and sustainable growth.
Representing the ECA, Mr. Melaku Desta, Coordinator of the African Trade Policy Centre, commended Ethiopia’s leadership, noting that “the Strategy is among the most comprehensive developed to date,” as it includes all eight AfCFTA protocols, including Phase II protocols on investment, intellectual property rights, and competition. He highlighted that while validation is an important step, “strategies do not implement themselves.” Desta called for deliberate, whole-of-government action led by MoTRI and the National Implementation Committee.
From the research and technical partner side, Mr. Fekadu Tsega, Director General of the Policy Studies Institute, shared insights on the rigorous process behind the Strategy’s development. He noted that the process included extensive diagnostic reviews, stakeholder consultations, and technical assessments to ensure national ownership and strategic alignment. “This Strategy provides a blueprint on the products and African markets Ethiopia should prioritize, along with strategic interventions required to implement the AfCFTA effectively,” he said.
All speakers acknowledged the Strategy as a result of strong national collaboration and reaffirmed their institutions' commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s implementation efforts. With the Strategy now validated, the focus shifts to implementation—anchored in coordination, investment, monitoring, and shared accountability.
Issued by:
Communications Section
Economic Commission for Africa
PO Box 3001
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia
Tel: +251 11 551 5826
E-mail: eca-info@un.org