Ethiopia’s coffee exports earn US$2.7B as China emerges key growth market

ETHIOPIA – Ethiopia’s coffee industry generated USD 2.7 billion in revenue in the 2024/25 fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. 

Speaking at the “Progress for Sustainable Growth” forum, Minister of Agriculture Addisu Arega highlighted the sector’s remarkable expansion. Coffee exports have grown significantly compared to five years ago, when annual shipments were below 200,000 tons. In the latest fiscal year, production reached 1.2 million tons, with 467,000 tons exported. 

The minister credited the Green Legacy Initiative, which promotes the planting of large numbers of coffee seedlings, as a key driver of rising output. He also noted that coffee provides a livelihood for more than 20 million Ethiopian farmers, underscoring its critical role in the national economy. 

To further strengthen the industry, the government is working to improve coordination among farmers, processors, and exporters. Research institutions are also developing new coffee varieties aimed at increasing yields while addressing threats such as plant disease and climate change.  

The distribution of improved seedlings across different regions is expected to provide farmers with greater resilience and higher incomes. 

Ethiopia’s efforts to expand its presence in global coffee markets have already yielded results, particularly in China. Ethiopian Ambassador to China Tefera Derbew Yimam announced that China is now the country’s fifth-largest coffee importer.  

In 2024/25, Ethiopia exported over 34,000 tons of coffee to China, generating more than US$218 million. 

“The rapid growth of our coffee exports to China is more than just a statistic; it is a symbol of the strong and vibrant relationship between our nations,” Yimam said. 

He explained that the rise of coffee culture in China, especially among younger consumers, has aligned with Ethiopia’s premium offerings such as Yirgacheffe’s floral notes and Harrar’s fruity, wine-like flavors. China’s zero-tariff policy on Ethiopian coffee has further boosted competitiveness and accessibility in the market. 

Looking ahead, Ethiopia plans to deepen coffee promotion in China. The Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing will host the inaugural Ethiopian Coffee Culture Festival later this year.  

Additionally, a pre-investment delegation will visit Ethiopia in October to explore opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, new energy, coffee, livestock, mining, culture, and tourism. 

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