The Ethiopian Horticulture Producer Exporters Association (EHPEA) has been determined advocating for its member farms in addressing key challenges on in the last 2016 budget year.
Our Key Achievements:
Public-Private Dialogue Drives Solutions
EHPEA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, organized successful public-private dialogues. These high-level meetings brought together federal and regional government officials with horticulture growers and exporters to discuss and resolve major industry challenges which assisted for high level government officials expedited pending issues of the sector.
Land Lease Issues Resolved: Pending land lease issues around Batu and Bishoftu were addressed through discussions with Oromia and federal decision-makers.
Capital Goods Approved: Delays in the approval process for capital goods due to misunderstandings between the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) were resolved through EHPEA’s intervention.
Trucks Access Addis Ababa: Restrictions on trucks transporting horticulture exports into Addis Ababa were lifted following discussions with the Addis Ababa Traffic Management Agency.
Supported Vandalized Farms: EHPEA brought attention to the vandalized farms in the Bahirdar Cluster and advocated for their rehabilitation.
Import Permits Streamlined: Complications surrounding partial import permits for horticulture companies were resolved through discussions with the Ethiopian Customs Commission and National Bank of Ethiopia. Agreements were made to continue with previous permit arrangements.
Collaboration with Investment Commission: EHPEA met with the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC) to discuss industry challenges and strategize on creating a more enabling environment for horticulture. The EIC commissioner pledged to collaborate and address current obstacles.
Tax Related Issues Addressed: EHPEA identified tax challenges faced by the commercial horticulture sub-sector. The Ministry of Revenue instructed regional offices to finalize pending issues, except those under litigation. As a result, tax issues for Dumen orange (Red Fox), Assela Flower, Vegpro, and Marginpar are being addressed.
Improved Labor Relations: EHPEA facilitated negotiations between trade unions and horticulture farms, resulting in a salary increase agreement. The introduction of a cluster-based wage scheme has improved wage levels and fostered better industrial harmony.
Air Cargo Facilitation: EHPEA secured freight arrangements with Ethiopian Airlines for Bahirdar cluster farms, enabling them to ship their products by air.
EHPEA’s advocacy efforts have demonstrably benefited the Ethiopian horticulture industry. By tackling critical issues and fostering collaboration, EHPEA is helping member farms thrive and contribute to the nation’s economy.
