Ethiopia plans to generate over $9.4 billion in foreign currency from exports in the upcoming 2018 fiscal year, according to Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Dr. Kassahun Gofe.

Speaking to state media, Dr. Kassahun highlighted the major successes of the past fiscal year, including the organization of over 1,500 weekend market centers. This initiative was designed to mend market infrastructure and create a space for producers and consumers to connect directly.

The ministry has also embraced technology, rolling out an online system that allows businesses to get trade registration and licensing services remotely. To further streamline this, a new one-stop-shop service, "Mesob," has been launched.

During the recently concluded fiscal year, Ethiopia earned $8.3 billion from exports by enhancing its international market competitiveness. The primary contributors to this revenue were mineral, agricultural, industrial, and electricity products.

Beyond domestic efforts, Dr. Kassahun noted significant progress in boosting Ethiopia's global trade presence. The country has made successful strides in its World Trade Organization (WTO) membership process, with 20 member nations expressing interest in bilateral market negotiations. Preparations are complete for the 6th working group meeting in Geneva this September, which is expected to advance Ethiopia's accession to the organization.

Additionally, the minister announced that Ethiopia is ready to begin its first trade activities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement in the second week of September.

To ensure product standards, an advanced quality inspection system for both imports and exports is now in place at the "Ethiopian Quality Village." Dr. Kassahun confirmed that efforts to strengthen the trade structure, enhance market regulation, and combat price increases will continue.