Potentials and Opportunities of Ethiopian Horticulture Sector
Ethiopia offers plenty of opportunities to cultivate a range of horticultural crops due to its diversified soil and climate, which includes numerous agro-ecological areas. Ethiopia has considerable altitudinal fluctuations, making it suited for the cultivation of economically significant vegetable crops.
These include (a) temperate zones (above 2400 m asl) with average daytime temperatures of 0 to 16oC; (b) sub-tropical zones (1500 m asl to 2400 m asl) with temperatures between 16 and 20oC; and (c) tropical/arid zones (below 1500 m asl) with temperatures of 27 oC or higher. The nation has a sizable water supply for irrigation, which is ideal for the sustainable production of premium fruits and vegetables for both the local and international markets.
Horticulture exports in Ethiopia
Horticulture exports from Ethiopia are growing very rapidly and are considered to be an important element in the country’s efforts to diversify exports and to contribute directly to poverty reduction. Joint efforts on a wide range of issues are being implemented by the Ethiopian government, private sector, as well as developmental partners to secure a further well balanced growth of the sector and increase the societal benefits in terms of employment and foreign exchange earnings as well as to minimize the possible negative impact on natural resource base.
As one of the partners to the Ethiopian government, The Netherlands Government has committed itself to contribute to strengthening the enabling environment of the horticulture sector in Ethiopia through the support to the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers Exporters Association, increasing the food security and safety of Horticulture producing smallholder farmers and consumers and promote sustainable and inclusive production.
Ethiopia’s Horticulture Exports Generate Over 514 Million USD in Nine Months
Ethiopia exported more than 215,800 tons of horticulture products to the international market, generating over 514 million USD in the final nine months of the fiscal year 2023. Exports of flowers accounted for almost $444 million in revenue, while exports of vegetables and fruits brought in $57 million and $13.3 million, respectively.
The Ethiopian Ministry predicted that over the time period, exports of flowers will generate $428.6 million, vegetables $93.4 million, and fruits $27.7 million. 94% of the income and 57% of the quantity were actually realized. The income increased by 15.7% over the same time in the previous year, demonstrating the sector's potential for growth. The income climbed by 15.7% over the same period last year, showing the sector has room to develop.
