Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopian has earned over 366 million USD from horticulture export trade, Minister of Agriculture Mr. Girma Amente (PhD) stated today.
The Minister highlighted the sector’s growth, economic reforms.as well as investment opportunities at the launch of the 9th International Floriculture and Horticulture Trade Fair (HortiFlora Ethiopia 2025), launched today, April 1, at Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa.
Themed “Horticulture for Sustainable Ethiopia”, the three-day event is organized by the Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) in collaboration with HPP Exhibitions Worldwide. It brought together over 133 exhibitors from different countries, including growers, exporters, investors, and industry stakeholders.
In his opening remarks, Mr Girma stated that horticulture plays a profound role in earning foreign currency from export and improving livelihood of the society.
Highlighting the measures and reforms introduced by the Ethiopian government to improve business climate, the Minister said his country has embarked on innovative approaches to advance the horticulture subsector.
Mr. Girma pointed out that the horticulture subsector created decent work opportunities in Ethiopia where 80 percent are women. He also noted that the government is taking measures to improve business climate in Ethiopia.
He also emphasized the significance maintaining the momentum and capitalizing on the success registered in the industry, noting that the horticulture subsector requires commitment to address challenges and improve the persormances.
While reaffirming his government’s commitment to ensure sustainable and conducive business environment in Ethiopia, Girma also called on all stakeholders to work in unison in ensuing sustainability of the subsector’s performance in the country.
In his statement, Nega Mequanint, EHPEA Chairperson, stated that Addis Ababa hosting this international trade is testament to Ethiopia’s remarkable progress in the horticulture sector. The HortiFlora 2025 expo fosters investment and international business.
The progress of the horticulture sector in Ethiopia is the outcome of public- private collaborative efforts, according to the Chairperson.
He asserted that the industry remains committed to environmental and social aspects, and pointed out that the sector has been resilient to some natural and manmade challenges over the past few years.
HortiFlora Ethiopia 2025 serves as a key platform for showcasing Ethiopia’s growing horticulture industry, which has become a major global player in floriculture and fresh produce exports. It was indicated that the industry has generated more than 200,000 direct jobs, particularly benefiting women and youth, while ranking among the country’s top three foreign exchange earners.