CHINA APPROVES ETHIOPIAN SOYBEAN MEAL IMPORTS, BOLSTERS TARIFF-FREE TRADE

China greenlights Ethiopian soybean meal imports to diversify protein sources, leveraging tariff-free access to strengthen trade ties.

By Walcott Aganu

Ethiopian soybean meal China tariff-free Africa trade
Soybean
Soybean
China has authorized the import of soybean meal from Ethiopia, effective July 13, as part of a strategic move to diversify its protein supply amid global trade tensions, according to a Chinese customs statement. This decision aligns with China’s broader policy to eliminate tariffs on imports from African nations, enabling Ethiopian soybean meal that meets stringent phytosanitary standards and is pest-free to enter the world’s largest animal feed market tariff-free. 

The move, announced on July 7, reflects China’s efforts to reduce reliance on traditional soybean suppliers like Brazil and the United States, which have faced disruptions due to U.S.-China trade disputes. “This is part of a broader strategy to diversify supply sources,” said Rosa Wang, an analyst at Shanghai-based JCI consultancy. “While the volume from Ethiopia is not expected to be large, it marks a significant step for African agricultural exports.” 

Ethiopia’s entry into China’s soybean meal market, supported by the tariff-free policy under the China-Africa Economic Partnership, positions the country to tap into growing demand for protein-rich animal feed. Analysts have hailed the development, noting its potential to boost Ethiopia’s oilseed sector and enhance trade ties. 

The initiative complements recent agreements with other nations like Argentina and Uruguay, as China seeks resilient supply chains. With trade volumes expected to grow modestly, this milestone underscores Ethiopia’s rising role in global agricultural markets.

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