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Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 —The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration stated that Ethiopia’s prolonged effort to become a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) has entered a critical phase.

After the 7th Working Party meeting took place on April 22 and 23, 2026, in Geneva, Switzerland, the ministry referred to the results as a significant achievement in what officials describe as a 23-year negotiation process.

Minister Kassahun Gofe, head of the delegation and chief negotiator, highlighted that the talks represented a major advancement.

He also mentioned that Ethiopia’s discussions have now reached a “crucial phase” and referred to the result as a pivotal moment in the accession process.

During a press conference today, he emphasized, “Ethiopia has secured its most significant and effective diplomatic success yet at the 7th Working Group Meeting, which aimed for WTO membership.”

He also mentioned that the nation’s accession procedure is currently on a “rapid path” that has received global acknowledgment, stating that recent discussions have sped up development in comparison to earlier years.

As stated by the minister, the government’s macroeconomic reform plan has enhanced Ethiopia’s standing in discussions and fostered trust among WTO members.

He further mentioned that the 7th Working Party session resulted in a more defined and progressed level of dialogue, indicating increasing backing from participating countries.

Kassahun added that Ethiopia’s process is currently seen as one of the quickest among recent candidates, attributing this progress to improved institutional collaboration and ongoing high-level interactions, such as the 5th, 6th, and 7th working group meetings held in a brief timeframe.

Although recognizing that a small number of technical challenges still exist, he conveyed assurance that Ethiopia would finish its accession procedure by the end of 2026.

The 8th Working Party session is anticipated to occur in September 2026, with discussions progressing toward the final phase of membership confirmation.