Ethiopian Chamber Calls for Concerted Efforts to Mitigate Illicit Trade

Addis Ababa, September 21, 2026 (ENA) —  The Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations (ECCSA) has called for a concerted effort by regional authorities and the federal government in combating illicit trade across the country.

Opening the Eastern Corridor Stakeholder Workshop on Combating Illicit Trade in Ethiopia today, ECCSA Secretary General Kenenisa Lemi stressed the need for a concerted effort by all stakeholders to combat illicit trade across the country. 

The Secretary General added that the meeting will play a significant role in raising awareness regarding the impact of illegal trade on business and investment as well as related economic, social, and security threats.

Beyond weakening legitimate business enterprises, Kenenisa noted that illicit trade deprives the government collectible revenue, undermines domestic and foreign investment, distorts market competition, fuels corruption, and erodes public trust in institutions.

"We (therfore) need a strengthened system of collaboration among relevant federal bodies, regional trade bureaus, customs, law enforcement institutions, and the private sector," he said.

According to him, such collaboration does not necessarily require creating a new institution. Using existing structures more effectively, establishing clear communication channels, conducting regular information exchanges, and solving problems jointly can yield significant results.

Furthermore, the Secretary General stated that illicit trade affects not only legal business entities, but also consumers, the government, workers, producers, and the economy as a whole.

"Contraband severely harms the revenue that should be collected by the government, thereby squandering public and government resources that could otherwise be used for development, education, health care, and job creation," he noted.

At this crucial moment when Ethiopia is diligently working to implement comprehensive macroeconomic reforms to boost productivity, enhance export competitiveness, and drive industrial transformation, Kenenisa pointed out that illegal trade persists as a severe challenge to national development.

The half-day workshop drew participants from Oromia, Somali, and Harari regions as well as Dire Dawa City Administration, which are all part of the Eastern Trade Corridor, along with representatives from federal institutions, law enforcement bodies, and the private sector.