EU market research – Ethiopia fresh fruit and vegetables

The goal of part 1 of this study is to assess the current opportunities for Ethiopian fruit and vegetables based on trade data and other available sources, and to define the most potential export products for the European market.

Considering the current demand and the competition from countries near Europe or with similar climates, most potential for Ethiopian export to Europe can be found in beans, fresh herbs, and increasingly in avocados and grapes. There is also potential for high-quality strawberries. Products that are also exported to Europe include spring onion and peas, and in the future, there may be a possibility to export mangoes.

The increasing interest in healthy, convenient and sustainable food drives the growth of several types of fruit and vegetables, but at the same time, the phytosanitary and food safety requirements for many of these products are becoming stricter and Ethiopia does not seem sufficiently prepared for this.

Ethiopia’s unique and diverse climate offers opportunities for the export of horticultural crops and various fruits, but the country also faces many challenges in professionalising the fresh sector and improving its facilities. In the short term, it is best for Ethiopian farmers to differentiate in varieties or qualities (e.g. strawberries by air), and possibly organic fruit and vegetables, or focus on specific seasonal gaps on the European market.