2merkato

The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) announced that cement manufacturers in Ethiopia would now be able to distribute their products through chosen distributors, a shift intended to streamline the supply chain and better meet demand. The announcement follows a consultation forum between the ministry and cement manufacturers on aligning product supply with the growing demand in the construction sector.

The Ethiopian Ministry of Trade is doing trial runs for Online Trade Registration and Licensing System. The 300 million birr project was initiated by the federal government and is expected to be launched on a national level.

The software for the OTRLS program, which would replace the current manual business registration process, was developed by Custor Computing plc at a total cost of 1 million birr. The online system will not require applicants for a new business license or those seeking renewal of licenses to appear in person at the ministry offices except to pick up the physical copy of the license issued.

The new system allows a person to log into the system to obtain information on the requirements for a particular type of business license or for renewal. The individual can then go on to fill out the appropriate form and attach scanned copies of supporting documentation such as there Tax Identification Number and business details.

The Ministry of Transport and Logistics collaborate with the Ethiopian Federal Police to ensure the safety of road and rail transport. The collaboration also aims to ensure imported fuel will be used for its intended purpose.

Dagmawit Moges, the Minister of Ministry of Transport and Logistics, stated that the collaboration created between the two institutions would help in solving the problems seen in the use of fuel in the country. According to the Minister, there are instances where fuel becomes rarely available with its subsidized price.

The Ministry of Revenues announced that a legal framework which regulates the import export trade between Ethiopia and Eritrea was being prepared. The ministry stated restrictions were imposed on fuel and other commodities sent to Eritrea. According to Revenues Minister Adanech Abebe, the legal framework will also include a tax system.

Ministry of Mines (MoM) disclosed it is not going to issue mineral exploration license in the South western part of Ethiopia, despite the area is known for its mineral deposits.