Fossil fuel vehicles are prohibited from being imported by diplomatic missions in Ethiopia

The Ethiopian government has prohibited the importation of unleaded and diesel vehicles by all diplomatic missions and international organizations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Monday, indicating that the action was a component of Ethiopia’s overarching strategy to advance environmental sustainability and transition to renewable energy..

“The Ministry wishes to inform all diplomatic and consular missions, regional and international organizations in Addis Ababa that in light of the pressing challenges posed by climate change and Ethiopia’s commitment to contribute to emission reduction and transition to renewable energy, the importation of vehicles using fuels (petrol and diesel) for internal combustion engines is prohibited,” according to the announcement.

“All those with diplomatic privileges are required to continue importing only electric vehicles as per the direction enforced for duty-free importation of vehicles,” according to the document.

In January, Ethiopia implemented an exhaustive prohibition on the importation of fossil-fueled vehicles.

The government’s unwavering stance against such a moratorium may now compel other governments to consider the transition, particularly since their missions in Ethiopia will be permitted to exclusively operate electric vehicles in the future. Additionally, it may induce car dealers and these organizations to expedite the sale of their inventory at a reduced price in foreign markets.

Recognizing the country’s robust renewable energy resources, the government is advocating for electric vehicles. However, Ethiopia must also guarantee that electricity is supplied to both residential and commercial areas. Electricity is accessible to approximately 40% of the 110 million inhabitants of the nation.

As a result of the prohibition, the government is now obligated to establish recharge stations that are more efficient than those that are now available in Addis Ababa.

According to officials, Ethiopia’s swift transition to electric vehicles is being influenced by both economic and environmental factors.

The government’s prohibition on the import of gas-powered passenger vehicles is a substantial policy decision, given the estimated fourfold increase in the number of electric vehicles (EVs) in the country by 2032 and the current presence of approximately 100,000 EVs.

However, Ethiopia maintains that its strategy is intended to enhance the economy while simultaneously fostering environmental sustainability, as the government contended in January when it initially implemented import restrictions.

Ethiopia is utilizing its hydroelectric resources, such as the Grand Ethiopia Renaissance Dam (GERD) initiative on the Nile and numerous other rivers in the country, to enhance its electricity profile.

Ethiopia has initiated electricity generation from a section of the dam that is currently under construction.

The prohibition, which is the first of its kind in the world, is intended to alleviate the financial burden of petroleum importation and capitalize on the nation’s dependence on hydropower, which generates 96% of its electricity. Manufacturers were provided with a ten-year plan to cease the production of fossil-fuelled vehicles, as regions such as the European Union had announced a gradual transition.