Ethiopia Opens China Export Transactions to All Banks

May 27, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

The National Bank of Ethiopia has opened China-bound export transactions to all licensed commercial banks, ending a policy that had previously required exporters to process permits and related banking services exclusively through the state-owned Commercial Bank of Ethiopia.

In a notice issued on May 26, the central bank said commercial banks are now authorised to issue export permits, manage documentary credits and handle all related banking transactions for exports destined for the People’s Republic of China.

The directive takes effect immediately. The arrangement had been in place under a broader economic and financial co-operation agreement between the Ethiopian and Chinese governments.

The central bank said the decision was intended to streamline foreign trade procedures, improve competitiveness and create a more accessible environment for exporters.

The move opens one of Ethiopia’s largest export corridors to private lenders at a time when authorities are pursuing wider financial sector reforms aimed at improving trade finance access.

China is among Ethiopia’s largest trading partners and a key destination for exports including coffee, oilseeds, minerals and agricultural commodities.