EU backed Addis Business Conference Explores Ways to Reduce Transport Time on Ethio-Djibouti Corridor

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 22 January 2025: The Ethio-Logistics Sectoral Association (ELSA), in partnership with TradeMark Africa (TMA), is hosting a two-day conference to discuss and recommend initiatives that can improve trade and address barriers within the Ethiopia-Djibouti trade corridor.

Supported by the European Union (EU) through the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the conference is a follow-up event scheduled for April in Djibouti.

This conference addresses the important role of the Ethio-Djibouti corridor, which handles 90% of Ethiopia’s foreign trade. Three years ago, the EU initiated a €32 million programme with AFD and TMA to enhance corridor efficiency and reduce the time and costs of trading along the corridor and across the border.

This initiative has focused on trade facilitation and supporting the major value chains while promoting sustainable and inclusive trade practices, especially for vulnerable groups including women traders, ensuring that the benefits of increased trade are shared broadly.

Notable projects under this programme include the implementation of a Fleet Management System, alignment with WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement standards, and improved Ethio-Djibouti Corridor Management. On the Ethiopian side, initiatives include boosting Logistics Competitiveness, promoting AfCFTA awareness and sensitisation, deploying an e-Phyto certification system, and advancing the Ethio-Djibouti Corridor Management and Coordination project. These efforts collectively aim to position the corridor as a benchmark for efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity in African trade.

Participants at the conference include private logistics providers, traders, government representatives, and industry leaders to who discussed   practical ways to simplify trade processes, boost productivity and tackle logistical issues. The goal is to transform the corridor into a driver of economic growth, and regional integration.

ELSA President, Mrs. Elizabeth Getahun, stated: “ELSA primary goal is to strengthen economic ties and drive sustainable growth through impactful business partnerships. This conference provides a platform to address trade challenges, explore new opportunities, and enhance productivity while fostering direct dialogue among high-level decision-makers, industry leaders, and traders. By building these connections, we pave the way for deeper bilateral trade relationships and stronger regional integration.’’

Ewnetu Taye Chufa, TMA Ethiopia Country Director said, “Collaboration is essential to transforming the Ethiopia-Djibouti corridor into a dynamic engine of economic growth. Through TradeMark Africa’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive trade, this initiative ensures practical solutions that enable seamless operations for all stakeholders- from large exporters to small-scale traders. By addressing systemic inefficiencies, we seek to unlock the region’s full economic potential while fostering equity and resilience in trade systems.’’

The upcoming event in Djibouti will further address trade and logistical challenges specific to the region, building on the outcomes from Addis Ababa and pushing for ongoing reforms. Stakeholders will explore strategies to harmonise trade policies, overcome non-tariff barriers, and enhance operational efficiencies.