Ethiopia to Launch AfCFTA Area Program

Addis Ababa, October 7, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia will officially launch the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) program to deepen economic integration and expand regional trade across Africa on October 9, 2025, the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced today.

Ethiopia has played a leading role in Africa’s trade initiatives by ratifying the AfCFTA agreement early, positioning itself at the forefront of continental economic cooperation, Trade and Regional Integration State Minister Yasmin Wohaberebi said.

 According to her, the agreement aims to create one of the world’s largest free trade areas to foster economic growth, reduce poverty, and support sustainable development aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Thorough preparations and discussions have been completed to ensure the AfCFTA’s smooth rollout, she stated, emphasizing Ethiopia’s readiness to enhance trade ties within Africa and stimulate domestic economic sectors such as coffee, grains, meat, spices, vegetables, and fruits.

 The AfCFTA agreement envisions progressively cutting tariffs by 90 percent, which will boost Ethiopia’s competitiveness, strengthen regional supply chains, and open new opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and youth.

It also includes provisions for resolving trade disputes, protecting intellectual property, promoting digital commerce, and encouraging greater participation of women in business.

Ethiopia’s role as the host country of the African Union adds strategic importance to coordinating AfCFTA activities continent-wide, Yasmin said.

 The state minister added that the launch will empower Ethiopian traders and citizens to access improved goods and services, thereby increasing national revenue.

 The program coincides with finalizing required tariff reductions and regulatory frameworks expected to significantly elevate Ethiopia’s status in both African and global markets while promoting economic growth and regional cooperation.

Currently, 55 African countries have signed the AfCFTA agreement, representing a combined population of over 1.4 billion people and a total GDP exceeding 3.4 trillion U.S. dollars.