Ethiopia strengthens farmers with cold storage facility in Addis Ababa

Ethiopia has taken another step in strengthening its trade and logistics systems with the opening of a large fruit, vegetable and animal products cold storage facility in Addis Ababa.

The new development reflects the country’s wider push to modernise its trade environment while improving the movement and preservation of agricultural goods.

The facility, developed by the Ethiopian Trading Business Corporation, is located in the Akaki Qaliti Sub City of Addis Ababa. It was officially inaugurated in the presence of Kassahun Gofe, Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, and Adanech Abiebie, Mayor of Addis Ababa, along with other senior government officials.

Speaking during the ceremony, Minister Kassahun said the project forms part of broader reforms aimed at modernising Ethiopia’s trade sector and enhancing supply chain performance. He explained that the government is working to improve storage, distribution and logistics systems to ensure goods move more efficiently from producers to markets.

The cold storage complex has the capacity to handle more than 20,000 quintals of fruit and vegetables at a time, in addition to storing up to 10,000 quintals of animal products. By providing controlled temperature storage, the facility is expected to significantly reduce post harvest losses and maintain consistent product quality. This is particularly important for farmers and traders who depend on stable market conditions.

Built at a cost of around 1.7 billion birr, approximately US$30mn, the project covers over 11,400 square metres. Alongside the storage units, the site includes a ten storey multipurpose building designed to support integrated trade and logistics services.

Minister Kassahun noted that Ethiopia is actively pursuing reforms to strengthen its position in regional and global markets. Current priorities include improving access to essential goods at fair prices, reinforcing market connections, expanding modern logistics infrastructure and promoting a transparent and competitive trade system.

He also highlighted the role of the Ethiopian Trading Business Corporation in supporting exports and contributing to national economic goals. According to the Minister, the corporation will continue aligning its activities with the country’s wider trade reform agenda.

The new facility represents part of Ethiopia’s broader investment in cold chain and logistics capacity, aimed at improving how agricultural produce is handled, stored and delivered to both domestic and international markets.