Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) announced that spice exports generated USD 7.5 million from 8,400 tons sold over the past 11 months. This reflects a 2,000-ton increase compared to the same period last year.

ECTA’s Director General Adugna Debela highlighted Ethiopia's diverse spice production, over 50 varieties with 16 currently exported to 39 countries. The Authority is working to improve spice production and marketing to further boost foreign exchange earnings. This includes developing a strategic plan for the spice sector and collaborating with the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration to enhance export quality.

Meanwhile, the country exported 252,000 tons of coffee over the past 11 months, generating USD 1.28 billion. The target is to reach USD 1.45 billion by the fiscal year's end.

ECTA is implementating a direct marketing system with the aim to improving coffee export. In 2019, only 7% of coffee exports utilized this method. Today, over 90% bypass intermediaries, allowing exporters and suppliers to directly negotiate quality and price.

Upcoming coffee exhibitions in Hawassa and Jimma aim to further strengthen the industry. Over 300 suppliers will showcase their products, connecting with interested exporters. Panel discussions will delve into industry issues, highlighting Ethiopia's potential to maximize foreign exchange earnings through its strong coffee production capacity.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency and Addis Zemen