October 23, 2025
PHOTO CREDIT: EHPEA
The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) recently convened a vital consultative meeting at their Addis Ababa office, focusing on new packaging standards for fruits, vegetables, herbs, and vegetable seeds destined for export by air.
This initiative is set to enhance the efficiency, quality, and global competitiveness of Ethiopia’s horticultural products, often referred to as the country’s “green gold.”
The meeting brought together key stakeholders including representatives from the Ethiopian Customs Authority, Ministry of Agriculture, and members of EHPEA farms to critically review and discuss draft packaging standards. These standards emphasize the importance of uniformity in packaging dimensions, pallet numbering, and weight specifications tailored specifically to different crop types. The collaborative approach ensures that the standards are practical and implementable at the farm level, creating a seamless process from farm to international market.
Standardized packaging promises multiple benefits: improved product quality, consistent compliance with international export regulations, streamlined logistics, and faster customs clearance. Uniform packaging reduces the risk of damage during handling and transport, thereby minimizing post-harvest losses and ensuring customers receive produce in excellent condition.
EHPEA’s proactive role in championing these standards highlights its commitment to strengthening Ethiopia’s horticultural export competitiveness and elevating its reputation for quality and reliability in global markets. The organization continues to promote member engagement in these policy discussions to ensure the industry’s collective advancement.
This move aligns with Ethiopia’s vision of becoming a leading horticultural exporter in Africa by adopting best practices in quality management and logistics. Through harmonized packaging standards, Ethiopian exporters can meet growing international demand while safeguarding the sustainability and profitability of the sector.