The Ethiopian Coffee and Tea Authority (ECTA) has taken a significant step forward in bolstering the spice industry by issuing a new proclamation aimed at providing a robust legal framework. This move comes after extensive deliberations and preparations since 2021 to modernize and regulate the spice sector, which represents a vital component of Ethiopia’s offerings to the global market.

Scheduled to come into effect this March, the directive addresses longstanding challenges in quality assurance, productivity, and market continuity within the spice industry. Ethiopia’s diverse agroecology and favorable climatic conditions provide an ideal backdrop for spice cultivation, but persistent issues such as miscommunication between farmers and consumers, inadequate market linkages, post-production management deficiencies, and transportation challenges have hampered its full potential.

Recognizing the immense economic and security benefits that a thriving spice industry can offer, ECTA emphasizes the importance of ensuring the welfare of spice producers and stakeholders. The newly issued guidelines are designed to enhance export earnings by promoting competitive, high-quality spice products consistently available in the international market.

By establishing modern, transparent, and equitable marketing practices, the proclamation aims to elevate spice manufacturers, marketing actors, and the nation’s prosperity to new heights. Under the directive, spices are defined as plant-derived products with distinct aromas, flavors, and properties, used widely in food, medicine, and various industrial applications.

Ethiopia currently exports 16 main types of spices, including ginger, turmeric, red pepper, and black fennel seed, highlighting the country’s rich potential in the global spice trade. With the implementation of the new proclamation, stakeholders are optimistic about the industry’s growth trajectory and its contribution to Ethiopia’s economic development.