Brazil Secures Approval to Export 17 Agricultural Goods to Ethiopia
Brazil has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining authorisation to export 17 agricultural products, including beef, poultry, and pork, to Ethiopia. This development comes as Ethiopia intensifies its “Made in Ethiopia” programme aimed at reducing dependency on imports and accelerating local production.
These export approvals cover Brazil’s vital sectors such as livestock and other farm produce, marking the first market openings under Agriculture Minister Andre de Paula, who assumed office recently. Brazil’s agriculture sector is a global leader, contributing over 40 percent of the country’s total export value and ranking among the world’s foremost suppliers of beef, poultry, soy, and other commodities. This is supported by advanced production systems and robust research institutions.
Ethiopia’s agricultural landscape and import substitution
Agriculture remains the backbone of Ethiopia’s economy, contributing roughly 35 percent of the GDP and employing the majority of the workforce. Despite its ambitious import substitution strategy, especially through the “Made in Ethiopia” initiative—which replaced approximately US$2.7 billion in imports during the first eight months of the 2024/25 fiscal year—there remains a shortfall in domestic production of processed foods and quality meat to meet rising demand.
Potential for expanding bilateral agricultural trade
The trade relationship between Brazil and Ethiopia is still in its early stages. In 2025, Brazilian exports to Ethiopia reached about US$31 million, predominantly in mineral fuels and machinery, while agricultural products formed a smaller share. The recent approvals pave the way for expanding agricultural trade, complementing Ethiopia’s efforts towards import substitution.
Implications for Zimbabwe and the region
This expansion of Brazilian agricultural exports to Ethiopia offers important lessons for Zimbabwe and the Southern African region. While Zimbabwe pursues strategies aligned with its National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) to improve local agricultural productivity, access to imported high-quality inputs and products can complement domestic efforts, particularly in areas where supply remains insufficient.
Strengthening intra-African trade through such bilateral agreements can bolster food security, encourage technology transfer, and stimulate regional agricultural economies.
FFA Explainer:
Import substitution is an economic strategy aiming to reduce a country’s dependence on imported goods by promoting local production to satisfy domestic demand.
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