Ministry of Finance announced banning of Forex allocation of several import items including Automobiles, except Electric vehicles. Starting from Monday 17 October, the National Bank of Ethiopia has informed banks to freeze issuance of Letters of Credit (LC) to import more than 38 types of products. The ban will last indefinitely.

Accordingly, prohibited products include drinks (whiskey or beer and other alcoholic beverages), chewing gum, chocolate, water, cigarettes, artificial accessories, and related materials, among others. It also applies to cars that are imported by private individuals except electric vehicles.

National Bank of Ethiopia confirmed that the decision was taken based on a direction set by the National Macroeconomic Committee. Download the document below to find out the list of products prohibited by Ministry of Finance.