Export to Ethiopia

Ethiopia has no trade agreement with India. It is landlocked and almost all of its sea cargo moves through Djibouti and then by rail or road. Indian medicines, machinery, steel, chemicals and vehicles are important to its economy. In July 2024 the National Bank of Ethiopia moved to a market-based exchange rate; buyers still need their bank to allocate foreign currency before an LC opens.

What it buys from India

• Medicines and pharmaceutical products
• Machinery, vehicles and auto parts
• Iron and steel products
• Chemicals, plastics and cotton yarn

Import rules on their side

• Food, medicines and medical devices need registration and an import permit from the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA).
• Goods under mandatory standards are checked for conformity before release; customs is run by the Ethiopian Customs Commission.
• Imports are normally paid through an Ethiopian bank by LC or documentary collection, under National Bank of Ethiopia rules.

Practical tips

• Do not ship until the LC is opened and, ideally, confirmed by a bank your Indian bank accepts.
• Allow for longer delivery time: port clearance in Djibouti plus inland transport adds days or weeks.
• Check ECGC cover for Ethiopia and the latest National Bank of Ethiopia directives before agreeing credit terms.