Ethiopia has been officially added to China’s list of approved soybean exporters, a move that deepens bilateral trade and investment ties between the two countries. Announced by China Customs and reported by News Central, the decision grants Ethiopian soybeans access to the world’s largest soybean market.

The move comes as China seeks to diversify its protein sources amid trade tensions with the United States. While China has long relied on Brazil and the U.S., it has recently expanded its supplier base to include Uruguay, Russia, Belarus, and Argentina. Ethiopia’s inclusion underscores Beijing’s growing economic engagement with Africa.

China is already Ethiopia’s largest trading and investment partner, with annual bilateral trade surpassing USD 4 billion. Ethiopian exports to China, led by coffee—which has seen a 27% increase over three years—also include sesame seeds, minerals, and other agricultural products.

On the import side, Ethiopia sources electronics, machinery, chemicals, and vehicles from China. Over 5,000 Chinese companies operate in Ethiopia, with Chinese FDI exceeding USD 4 billion.

Last year, Ethiopia’s total export revenue reached USD 8 billion, with gold and coffee remaining the top earners. Other major foreign investors include India, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

Source: The Ethiopian Herald