China-Ethiopia trade deals exceed US$330 million as access to Chinese market expands
Thirty-three agreements were signed in Addis Ababa as both countries seek to increase Ethiopian exports and build more balanced trade ties
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Photo source: Oleksii Liskonih / iStock
China and Ethiopia have signed 33 trade and cooperation agreements worth more than US$330 million, as Beijing and Addis Ababa seek to expand Ethiopian exports to the Chinese market and deepen bilateral economic ties, as reported by Global Times, a TV BRICS partner.
The agreements were announced during a trade promotion event in Addis Ababa focused on increasing access for Ethiopian products to China. More than 200 representatives from the two countries took part in discussions on market opportunities, supply chains and potential trade partnerships.
Ethiopian exports to China reached US$369 million in the 2025/26 Ethiopian financial year, according to Ethiopia's Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration. The figure represents an average annual growth rate of 92 per cent over the past five years.
The latest agreements come as China seeks to increase imports from Ethiopia and promote a more balanced flow of goods between the two economies.
Chinese officials highlighted measures designed to reduce market-access costs for Ethiopian exporters, including expanded zero-tariff treatment. The policy is intended to make Ethiopian goods more competitive in the Chinese market while encouraging investment in sectors where Ethiopia has export potential.
Ethiopian officials said stronger access to China's consumer market could support the country's efforts to expand production, modernise agriculture and develop manufacturing capacity.
The trade initiative also aims to connect exporters and importers directly, allowing businesses from both countries to exchange market information and explore new supply-chain arrangements.
China has described the initiative as part of its broader effort to increase imports from countries around the world and support more balanced international trade.
The two sides are also seeking to use stronger trade links to support investment and industrial development in Ethiopia.
The signing of the 33 agreements marks a fresh step in economic cooperation between the two countries, with both governments signalling an intention to move beyond traditional trade flows and develop longer-term commercial and supply-chain links.
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