ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia has informed the World Trade Organization (WTO) that its decades-long bid to join the global trade body has reached a “decisive juncture” following a series of aggressive domestic economic reforms.
Speaking in Geneva, Minister of Trade Kassahun Gofe Balami stated that the government has implemented key legislative changes to align Ethiopia’s economy with international standards.
These reforms include the liberalization of the telecommunications and banking sectors, traditionally dominated by state monopolies.
The push for WTO membership is viewed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s administration as essential for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and stabilizing a macro-economy hit by internal conflict and high inflation.
However, negotiators admitted that the initial goal of completing accession by March 2026 has shifted, with several technical hurdles regarding tariff bindings and services commitments still under discussion.
Domestically, the electoral commission is facing increased pressure to provide a roadmap for regional elections, as opposition parties express concern over the “shrinking democratic space” and the quest for a legitimate multi-party system.
