Ethiopia Accelerates WTO Accession Negotiations After Five-Year Impasse

The Ethiopian government has resumed negotiations for its accession to the WTO after a five-year hiatus. Led by Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe Balami, the high-level delegation aims for Ethiopia to join the WTO by March 2026, coinciding with the 14th Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Ethiopia’s reform agenda focuses on compliance with WTO rules, facilitating private sector participation, and enhancing the business environment. Key reforms include changes in the foreign exchange system and promotion of long-term financing through a securities exchange.