Ethiopia opens coffee quality center in Dilla to boost global competitiveness
New coffee inspection and certification facility launched in Dilla aims to improve quality, cut costs, and strengthen exports.
ETHIOPIA – The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) has unveiled a strategic plan to enhance the nation’s coffee sector, with a focus on improving both quality and production volumes to reinforce its position in the global market.
As part of this initiative, ECTA inaugurated the Dilla Coffee Quality Inspection and Certification Center, the first facility of its kind in the region. The center is designed to streamline trade by reducing supply chain inefficiencies, lowering transport costs, and boosting overall sector efficiency.
ECTA Director General Adugna Debela, speaking at the launch, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to delivering premium coffee to international buyers. He emphasized that expanding inspection and certification facilities is critical, particularly for Yirgachefe coffee, which is globally renowned for its distinct flavor profile.
Adugna noted that ensuring reliable supply is essential for the new center to maximize its potential.
Southern Ethiopia Regional State Deputy Chief Administrator Abebayehu Tadesse underlined the region’s natural suitability for coffee production, citing Yirgachefe and Amaro as leading producers of premium-grade beans.
He explained that beyond certification, the center will also support research and training programs, enabling farmers to adopt modern practices. He added that building a more efficient marketing system remains a key priority.
Gedeo Zone Chief Administrator Zinabu Wolde highlighted ongoing coffee renovation programs that have already improved yields and quality. He further noted efforts to expand direct foreign trade channels, which could allow farmers to earn greater returns from their produce.
The center has also been welcomed by suppliers. Iyasu Warasa, Chairman of the Gedeo Zone Coffee Suppliers Association, said its establishment in Dilla will significantly reduce transport expenses and minimize trade delays.
He revealed that the association contributed over 17 million birr toward upgrading the facility, with long-term plans to position it as an exporter.
Ethiopia’s coffee sector generated US$2.7 billion in foreign currency earnings during the 2024/2025 season, supporting the livelihoods of more than 20 million farmers. Total production reached 1.2 million tons, with 467,000 tons exported.
Recently, ECTA has rolled out Directive 1106/2025, which raises capital requirements and introduces stricter quality standards for exporters. Under the new directive, private coffee exporters must hold at least Birr 15 million (US$104.1M), up from Birr 1 million. Larger firms, including trade associations and joint stock companies, now face a capital requirement of Birr 20 million (US$138.6K).
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