Addis Ababa – Ethiopian exporters are being urged to make full use of the United Kingdom’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which offers reduced or zero-tariff access for eligible products entering the UK market. The call came during a hybrid training workshop held in Addis Ababa on 8 July 2026, designed to help Ethiopian businesses navigate the opportunities, requirements, and practical steps for exporting to the UK.
The workshop was co-organized by the Embassy of Ethiopia in London, in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, the UK Department for Business and Trade, the British Embassy in Addis Ababa, and the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations. The event drew around 50 in-person participants in Addis Ababa and another 50 online attendees from Ethiopia and the UK. Its primary goal was to raise awareness of the DCTS and equip exporters with actionable knowledge to enter the UK market.
In his opening remarks, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the UK and Northern Ireland, Ambassador Biruk Mekonnen, described the DCTS as a significant opportunity for Ethiopian exporters to broaden their market presence in the UK. He identified sectors such as coffee, agriculture, horticulture, textiles, and apparel as well-positioned to benefit from the scheme. However, he stressed that preferential access must be matched by exporters’ capacity to meet quality standards, regulatory requirements, and ensure consistent and reliable supply. Ambassador Biruk reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to deepening Ethiopia–UK trade ties and supporting local businesses in reaching international markets. He also emphasized that successful use of the DCTS will depend on close collaboration among government bodies, the private sector, and development partners to convert trade opportunities into tangible business results.
Mr. Tsegaw Belete, Advisor to the State Minister for Trade Integration and Export Promotion at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, highlighted international trade as a vital driver of economic growth and structural transformation. He noted that Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms aim to enhance the business climate, boost productivity, and strengthen the global competitiveness of Ethiopian products.
The workshop featured several expert sessions. Jamal Hussain, UK Regional Trade Advisor, offered practical guidance on the DCTS, covering product eligibility, tariff benefits, rules of origin, and application procedures. Rebecca Schneider, UK Agriculture, Food and Drink Attaché, provided insights on agricultural exports to the UK, including market entry protocols, competent authorities, and compliance standards. Dr. Jean-Baptiste Damestoy from GIZ discussed opportunities and challenges in the textile and apparel sector, touching on market trends, certification requirements, and lessons from previous market engagements.
Overall, the workshop underscored the need to boost awareness among Ethiopian businesses of available trade preferences and ensure they are well-prepared to compete internationally. By more effectively utilizing the DCTS, Ethiopian exporters can expand their UK market access, diversify exports, strengthen participation in global value chains, and contribute meaningfully to the country’s export growth.
