Quality Agricultural Products Key to Export Standards, Says Ministry

Addis Ababa, April 25, 2025 (ENA) -- The Ministry of Agriculture underscored that maintaining the quality and safety of agricultural and animal products is as vital as increasing production, for both international markets and local consumers.

The remarks were made by Agriculture Minister Girma Amente during a ceremony held today to announce the accreditation and certification of the Ethiopian Agricultural Authority’s (EAA) Animal Products and Input Quality Testing Center. The event was held under the theme “Robust Regulatory System for Sustainable Development.”

The Testing Center, under the EAA's Animal Regulatory Division, has been officially accredited to conduct quality testing in 13 parameters. This milestone is expected to play a significant role in improving productivity while ensuring the safety and quality of products such as milk, eggs, honey, and meat.

Speaking at the event, Minister Girma highlighted that the accreditation is a key step in the government's broader efforts to meet global standards and boost the competitiveness of Ethiopian agricultural products. “Production alone is not enough,” he stressed. “We must ensure quality and safety if we are to meet international expectations and safeguard public health.”

 

Ambassador Deriba Kuma, Director General of the EAA, noted that over the past six years, the government has made significant efforts to bring about technological transformation in the agricultural sector. These efforts, he said, have resulted in meaningful progress in regulatory capacity and product quality assurance.

He described the accreditation of the Testing Center as a "historic milestone" in transforming Ethiopia’s agricultural regulatory system and credited the hard work and dedication of the Authority’s experts.

Ambassador Deriba also emphasized ongoing collaborations with stakeholders across the agricultural value chain to ensure quality and safety in both products and inputs.

Bonsa Bayissa, Director General of the Ethiopian Accreditation Service (EAS), confirmed that the accreditation was granted after a year-long evaluation process.

 

He commended the EAA’s commitment to maintaining high standards and noted that such achievements lay the foundation for improved quality, enhanced productivity, and increased global competitiveness.