Ethiopia has reached another important milestone in its effort to join the World Trade Organization, signing a Bilateral Market Access Protocol with New Zealand at the WTO headquarters in Geneva.

The agreement marks a further step in Ethiopia’s long-running accession process and signals continued progress toward deeper integration into the global trading system.

The protocol was signed by Tsegab Kebebew, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, and Clare Kelly, New Zealand’s Permanent Representative to the WTO and current Chair of the WTO General Council.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Tsegab said the agreement reflects the growing economic partnership between Ethiopia and New Zealand, as well as their shared commitment to an open, transparent and rules-based multilateral trading system.

He noted that WTO membership remains a strategic national priority for Ethiopia and forms part of the country’s broader economic reform agenda. He added that the accession process is expected to help improve trade competitiveness, attract investment, expand market opportunities and support sustainable economic growth.

Ambassador Clare Kelly congratulated Ethiopia on the signing of the protocol and reaffirmed New Zealand’s support for Ethiopia’s WTO accession process. She also expressed confidence in Ethiopia’s continued progress toward joining the organization.

The signing of the Bilateral Market Access Protocol represents another achievement in Ethiopia’s WTO negotiations, bringing the country closer to full membership. It also reinforces Ethiopia’s stated commitment to economic modernization, international trade and stronger engagement with the global economy.

Source (including image): Ethiopian News Agency