Ethiopia has achieved a significant milestone in its World Trade Organization (WTO) accession process by signing a Bilateral Market Access Protocol with Japan at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. The agreement was finalized by Tsegab Kebebew Daka, Ethiopia's Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva, and Nagai Katsuro, Japan's Permanent Representative to the WTO. This protocol represents Ethiopia's continuing efforts to establish its position within the global trading system and enhance bilateral trade relations with key partners.

With the addition of Japan, Ethiopia has now concluded market access negotiations with a total of seven WTO members, which include major economies such as China, Turkey, Argentina, Russia, Brazil, and Thailand. The successful signing of these agreements reflects Ethiopia's commitment to integrating into the global economy and expanding its trade partnerships. The Ethiopian government is taking proactive steps to ensure that it can finalize more agreements in the near future, thereby increasing its presence in international markets.

Looking ahead, preparations are underway for the 7th Working Party Meeting on Ethiopia's WTO accession, which is scheduled for April. This meeting will be crucial for moving forward with Ethiopia's bid to join the WTO fully. The ongoing negotiations and diplomatic engagements highlight Ethiopia's strategic approach to trade and economic development, signaling its determination to be an active player in the global trading system for sustained growth and development.