Ethiopia-Russia Trade Surges to $191.2 Million in 2025, Doubling from Previous Figures

October 13, 2018 E.C.

Trade between Russia and Ethiopia has more than doubled in the first half of 2025, reaching $191.2 million, according to Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin. 

In an interview with TASS, Ambassador Terekhin highlighted that strengthening economic relations remains a top priority for both countries, driven by strong mutual interest from their business communities. 

Ethiopian exports, including coffee, flowers, oilseeds, and pulses, are expected to expand further into the Russian market. The ambassador pointed out ongoing efforts to eliminate artificial trade barriers, focusing on improving logistics and financial settlement mechanisms. These initiatives are being pursued through bilateral channels and the BRICS platform. 

Recently, a video conference organized by the Russian Export Center and the Ministry of Economic Development brought together 35 companies 15 from Ethiopia and 20 from Russia including major organizations like Ethiopian Investment Holding. The event aimed to foster direct connections between producers and importers, bypassing intermediaries to facilitate smoother trade. 

Ambassador Terekhin reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to supporting these partnerships, emphasizing that direct engagement is the most effective way to enhance trade volumes. These developments mark a significant step forward ahead of the upcoming bilateral Intergovernmental Commission meeting.