The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) has officially announced the removal of all restrictions on export permits for goods destined for the People's Republic of China, a move aimed at streamlining Ethiopia’s export sector, enhancing competitiveness, and providing more accessible and convenient banking services for exporters.

Previously, under circular letter NBE/097/99, and in accordance with the broader economic and financial cooperation agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the People's Republic of China, the issuance of export permits for goods destined for China was exclusively handled by the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE).

However, the National Bank has now announced the total revocation of this previous procedure. Consequently, effective today, May 26, 2026, all licensed commercial banks in the country are authorized to handle documentation, permit issuance, and related banking services for exports to the People's Republic of China.

The National Bank has strictly instructed all commercial banks to begin providing these services to their customers immediately, in compliance with standard export and foreign exchange regulations.

This decision is expected to significantly boost the sector by providing investors involved in export trade with greater flexibility and improved access to banking services.