Ethiopia is ramping up meat exports as revenues climb to US$120M

ETHIOPIA – Ethiopia has generated US$120 million from the export of meat and slaughter by-products during the recently concluded fiscal year, according to the Livestock Development Institute (LDI).

LDI Director General Asrat Tera linked the increase to focused efforts by the government and relevant institutions to strengthen the livestock sector.

These include improving livestock breeds, training industry personnel, and raising product standards to meet global requirements.

The country exported more than 22,620 tonnes of animal products, representing a 53 percent rise from the previous year.

Among the exported goods were various cuts of meat and 21 categories of offal, including tongue, liver, heart, and kidneys.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates remained the leading buyers of Ethiopian meat products during the period.

The country also shipped honey and beeswax to international markets such as Japan, Germany, and the United States.

Authorities say they are working to widen market access and enhance the long-term competitiveness of the livestock export sector.

In support of these goals, about 1.97 million calves were produced through artificial insemination programs during the year.

To reduce stress on livestock during transport and improve product quality, Ethiopia has introduced a railway-based delivery system for animals destined for export.

The Ethio-Djibouti Railway Joint Stock Company has started transporting livestock by train from Ethiopia to Djibouti.

The company’s CEO stated that while the railway was initially used for importing goods, its new role could strengthen Ethiopia’s export infrastructure.

He added that the move could improve the condition of animals arriving at processing facilities, thereby enhancing the quality of exported meat.

New collection centres aim to boost rural access to trade

The Ministry of Agriculture has also revealed plans to set up 18 livestock collection centres across key pastoralist and semi-pastoralist regions.

The project will cover nine regions, including Oromia, Somali, Afar, Southern, and South West, with locations chosen to improve access to markets.

These centres are intended to help local herders connect more directly with buyers and reduce inefficiencies in the livestock trade chain.

Officials say the centres will play a critical role in streamlining how animals are sourced and sold, especially in rural areas where livestock is a main source of income.

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