Ethiopia has taken a significant leap forward in modernizing its agricultural export infrastructure with the official launch of its digital ePhyto system, a move poised to transform the country’s phytosanitary certification process. The Integrated Export and Import Certification System (IEICS), also known as the e-Phyto Project, replaces the traditional paper-based certification method with a fully digital platform. This initiative is designed to streamline the issuance and exchange of phytosanitary certificates, which are essential for the international trade of plants and plant products. By digitizing this process, Ethiopia aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and compliance with global trade standards.
The new system dramatically reduces the time required to process export certifications. What once took several days can now be completed in just a few hours, significantly accelerating the export timeline for agricultural producers and exporters. This efficiency gain is particularly crucial for perishable goods, such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers, which form a substantial portion of Ethiopia’s export portfolio. Moreover, the digital platform introduces robust traceability features, allowing authorities and trade partners to track the movement and status of consignments in real time. This not only improves logistical coordination but also strengthens confidence in the safety and quality of Ethiopian agricultural exports.
One of the most impactful aspects of the ePhyto system is its ability to combat fraud and reduce the risk of document loss or forgery. By eliminating the reliance on physical paperwork, the system ensures that certificates are securely transmitted through the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) ePhyto hub. This global integration enables Ethiopia to send and receive electronic phytosanitary certificates directly with other participating countries, aligning its practices with international norms and facilitating smoother cross-border trade.
The implementation of the ePhyto system is backed by strong international support, with funding provided by the European Union and TradeMark Africa. This collaboration underscores the global community’s recognition of Ethiopia’s strategic role in regional and international agricultural markets. The system was officially launched in Addis Ababa in late October 2025, with plans for a nationwide rollout within a month. This swift deployment reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging digital tools for economic development and trade facilitation.
For Ethiopia’s horticulture sector, which has long grappled with compliance challenges and logistical bottlenecks, the ePhyto system represents a transformative solution. By reducing costs associated with document handling and courier services, and by minimizing the environmental impact of paper-based processes, the platform supports both economic and sustainability goals. As the country continues to expand its agricultural exports, the digital certification system is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing competitiveness, ensuring product integrity, and fostering stronger trade relationships worldwide.