AfCFTA Hails Ethiopia’s Continental Trade Breakthrough

Addis Ababa, April 20, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s entry into trading under the continental agreement marks a major milestone in unlocking access to Africa’s single market of 1.4 billion people, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area, Wamkele Mene, said.

The EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026 officially opened today in Addis Ababa, spotlighting the theme “Unlocking the Global Gateway Potential.”

Addressing the forum, Mene said Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms and entry into trading under AfCFTA mark a historic step that positions the country to tap into a continental market of 1.4 billion people with a combined GDP of 3.4 trillion US dollars.

He noted that intra-African trade reached about 220 billion dollars in 2024, driven by manufacturing and services, and emphasized that the AfCFTA provides a stable, rules-based framework for investment and trade at a time of global economic uncertainty.

Mene also commended Ethiopia’s reforms in improving the business climate, including strengthening financial systems, customs and investment frameworks, as well as expanding digital payment platforms to integrate small businesses and farmers into the economy.