Obtain a pre-import permit - Ethiopia
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- Market Information
- Import Licences
- Obtain a pre-import permit
Quick info guide
To obtain an import license you need to have;
- A copy of your Tax Identification Number (TIN);
- A copy of the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association for private limited and share companies;
- Two passport size photographs taken within the last six months;
- If the applicant is a foreign investor, the investment and residence permits; and
- A valid commercial registration certificate.
License fees: 102 ETB
Prohibited Imports
The following goods are prohibited imports to Ethiopia:
(i) Used clothing
(ii) Arms and ammunition, except by the Ministry of Defense
(iii) Goods of a commercial nature and quantity that are not imported through formal bank payment mechanisms.
How to import goods into Ethiopia
To start an import business, one requires commercial registration and a license from the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The fees for commercial registration and business license are 102 ETB for each. For anyone who wishes to get started in business in general and import trade in particular, it is necessary to visit the Ministry of Trade and Industry which is located around ‘Kazanchis’ on the way to ‘Filwuha’ in the same building with the Development Bank of Ethiopia.
Obtain a pre-import permit
Step 2: Obtain a pre-import permit (for certain restricted goods only)
The import of certain goods into Ethiopia is restricted for safety, security, environmental, health and other reasons. In this regard, The Ministry of Trade and Industry has the power to restrict imports. There are a few restrictions on the importation of some products that compete with locally produced goods. For example;
Restricted Goods | Regulatory Agencies |
Pharmaceuticals and medicines, medical supplies or instruments, baby food, food supplements, cosmetics | Ethiopian Food and Drug Administration Authority
|
Veterinary drug and animal feed | Veterinary Drug and Feed Administration and Control Authority (VDFACA) |
Communication equipment | Information Network Security Agency (INSA) |
Telecommunication and network equipment | Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MinT) |
Radiation emitting equipment and radioactive sources | Ethiopian Radiation Protection Authority |
Vehicles | Ethiopian Transport Authority |