- Targeting 4 bln USD in exports
ADDIS ABABA– The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) has announced ambitious initiatives aimed at significantly boosting tea and spice production in the coming years.
In a recent interview with The Ethiopian Press Agency, Director General Adugna Debela, PhD, shared the authority’s plans to enhance both the quality and quantity of these vital agricultura products.
Ethiopia has a rich heritage of tea cultivation, dating back over a century. However, the country currently utilizes only about 4,000 hectares for tea production, primarily managed by private sector players. Despite having the potential to generate 7 million USD from tea exports, the nation currently earns only 3 million USD. “Tea thrives in acidic soil and marginal areas, yielding productive harvests for up to 40 years,” Adugna noted.
Recent developments in Oromia State display the authority’s commitment to expanding tea cultivation. Last year, tea was planted on 10,000 hectares across Jimma, BunoBedele, and Illubabora. Looking ahead, the state plans to cultivate an additional 30,000 hectares over the next three years, showcasing a clear strategy to enhance production capabilities.
In addition to tea, Ethiopia is home to over 50 varieties of spices, with ECTA identifying 20 of these as key export products. Packaging efforts are underway for 16 spices, ensuring they meet international quality standards. Currently, the country secures approximately 20 million USD from spice exports, but ECTA is focused on ramping up production and marketing strategies to increase this figure substantially.
The Authority’s overarching goal is to achieve a remarkable 4 billion USD in combined exports from coffee, tea, and spices in the near future. By leveraging Ethiopia’s unique agricultural conditions and implementing targeted strategies, ECTA aims to position the country as a leading player in the global tea and spice markets, ultimately maximizing economic benefits and enhancing livelihoods for local farmers.
Ethiopia’s strategy to enhance agricultural exports includes expanding tea and spice production alongside its established coffee industry. With diverse agro-ecological zones suited for high-value crops, the country is well-positioned to capitalize on global demand.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
The Ethiopian Herald October 6/2024
