Ethiopia customs export restrictions

Knowing export rules is crucial for all travelers, even if you're not traveling for business. While many focus on import regulations, export rules are equally important and can differ significantly.

Export rules govern what you can and cannot take with you when leaving Ethiopia. Before leaving Ethiopia make sure to check the allowance and limits for the next things:

  • Alcohol and tobacco
  • Currency
  • Cultural artifacts
  • Plants, fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products

Check the information below to be sure that you are complying with Ethiopia customs regulations. If you are looking for the import rules visit the Import regulations page.

Export regulations in Ethiopia

Items Free to Export

  • Visitors are entitled to leave with up to Br200.
  • Foreign currency up to US$3000 may be exported without declaration. Any further amount may be exported provided it was declared on arrival.

Prohibited Items

The following are goods which cannot be taken out of the country:

  • Illegal drugs.
  • Explosives that may be used in armed conflicts.
  • Ivory.

Restricted Items

These goods are strictly regulated, and in most cases require a permit to be obtained prior to departure:

  • Seeds, cereals, teff, beans, raw coffee, seedlings, and soil all require permits from the Ministry of Agriculture and National Resources.
  • Minerals and precious stones require permits from the Ministry of Mine, Petrol and Natural Gas.
  • National heritages and souvenirs such as sheepskin require a permit from the Authority of Research and Conservation of Cultural Heritage.
  • Hunting materials, wild animals, and their derivative products require a permit from the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority.
  • Pharmaceuticals require a permit from the Food, Medicine and Health care Administration and Control Authority of Ethiopia.
  • Electronic goods including laptops and MP3 players must be declared upon entering and again on leaving the country.

For further information, please visit the Ethiopian Revenues and Customs Authority.

Information has been updated: .