Commission Seeks Feedback on Overhauled Tariff Structure

Feb 21 , 2026

Ethiopian Customs Commission has invited affiliated institutions to comment on proposed amendments to the country’s custom tariffs. The Commission sent a letter to the Custom Services Provider Association, signed by Kassaye Ayele, Director of Tariff Administration. The Commission announced a comprehensive overhaul of the tariff structure to modernise the trade framework and support local manufacturing. The reform seeks to optimise information management, strengthen protection for domestic industries, and encourage substitution of imports with locally produced goods. By aligning with the World Customs Organisation’s Harmonised System (HS) updates, the Commission aims to ensure accurate classification of all goods, maximise revenue collection, and reduce reliance on foreign financing. The initiative is also a strategic step in the country's international trade agenda. As the country moves closer to World Trade Organisation (WTO) accession, duty rates and tariff classifications are being revised to improve negotiation leverage and ensure compliance with regional trade agreements. Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the convenience and consistency of proposed duty rates via email by 28 February 2026.