ADDIS ABABA-The Chinese e-commerce tycoon and co-founder of Alibaba Group Jack Ma said that owing to its international significance and its potential to transform the lives of many, Ethiopian coffee will boost its influence in the global market if its sale is digitally-assisted.
According to him, Ethiopia, a nation endowed with a rich variety of coffee and the first Coffee Arabica exporter in Africa, has high potential to sell a great deal of selections of specialty coffee. “If this potential is digitally-assisted, Ethiopian coffee which is rich with original flavor and aroma will significantly continue experiencing an easy sell in the global market.”
He added that his multinational conglomerate company Alibaba Group will support to this end through establishing electronic World Trade Platform that facilitates cross-border trade and provides smart logistics. As millions of consumers in different parts of the globe need to buy Ethiopian coffee, they can order the product easily using the mobile website; in this way, the product can reach the customers within 72 or less hours, noted billionaire Jack Ma.
Getahun Mekuria, Minister of Innovation and Technology said, “Our agreement to work with Alibaba Group is an important step in the development of a digital economy in Ethiopia,” adding that this will foster the nation’s plan to build a dynamic and growing digital economy that contributes meaningfully to the overall economic growth.
Jack Ma also said that the skillful leadership Ethiopian government is currently demonstrating in the region is the clearest indication that Africa will be the driver of the new globalization. “Hence, the continent ought to develop the digital technology with prudent policy so that it will tremendously benefit in this new era. The trading platform will enable Africa to compete with Europe and America,” he stated.
Inaugurating the e-commerce platform in Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) said that his government is working to stretch modern digital and electronic selling method for Ethiopian products. “This electronic selling method will enable the business leaders to sell their products through electronic world trade platform; we give great emphasis for such latest technology to ensure sustainable development in an inclusive approach,” he added.
The Ethiopian Herald, December 6/2019
BY MISGANAW ASNAKE
