– Germany, Saudi Arabia, U.S. top destination markets
ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia has earned a historic 1.8 billion USD from coffee exports over the past ten months, significantly surpassing its revenue target and setting a new national record, the Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) announced.
According to ECTA Communication Director Sahelmariam Gebremedhin, the country exported 354,392 tonnes of coffee between July and April, exceeding its initial goal of 240,753 tonnes and 1.315 billion USD in revenue. This marks 147% performance achievement, the highest in Ethiopia’s coffee export history.
Germany, Saudi Arabia, and the United States emerged as the top destinations for Ethiopian coffee during the reporting period. Germany alone imported over 61,000 tonnes, generating 295 million USD in revenue. Saudi Arabia and the U.S. followed closely, contributing 290 million USD and192 million USD, with import volumes of over 60,000 and 28,000 tonnes, respectively.
“Ethiopia’s coffee continues to gain prominence in the global market due to its quality and unique flavor profiles,” Sahelmariam told The Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA). “This year’s performance reflects the increasing international demand and our strategic efforts to diversify export markets.”
Other major importers of Ethiopian coffee include Belgium, China, South Korea, the UAE, Japan, Italy, and Jordan—ranking 4th to 10th respectively. Together, these ten countries accounted for 78% of total coffee export revenue during the period.
Compared to the same period last year, Ethiopia’s coffee exports increased by 145,000 tonnes and earned an additional 869 million USD in revenue.
Officials attribute this surge to improved coffee quality, strengthened market access, favorable international prices, and targeted promotional campaigns in key global markets.
The coffee sector remains a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s economy, employing millions and serving as a vital source of foreign exchange. With this momentum, authorities are optimistic that full-year performance could further break records and solidify Ethiopia’s standing as a top global coffee exporter.
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 23 MAY 2025
