Food Safety Regulations and Enforcement in Ethiopia

Abstract

Agricultural products such as coffee, sesame, and livestock constitute major components of Ethiopian exports. Accordingly, stringent food quality and safety requirements by international buyers (in Europe, North America, and Japan) are key drivers for the past and recent food safety laws and regulations in Ethiopia. The country's sustained economic growth in recent years and the subsequent increasing demand for imported products are also influencing food safety laws and regulations. Therefore, Ethiopia has been continuously upgrading its food safety laws and regulations to meet the requirements of international buyers and its fast growing food retail and wholesale establishments. Ethiopia follows a shared responsibility approach to monitor and enforce food safety laws and regulations. Currently, the Ethiopian Standards Agency (ESA) is the sole body engaged in establishing standards, while the Ethiopian Food, Medicine and Health Care Administration and Control Authority (FMHACA), the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), andthe Ministry of Trade and Industry (MoTI) are the other main agencies responsible for the execution of food safety laws and regulations in the country.