Ethiopia’s Formal Seed System Supplies Less Than 20 Percent of Demand

A national assessment of Ethiopia's agricultural sector reveals that the country's formal seed system contributes less than 20 percent of the total seed supply needed nationwide. As a result of this significant shortfall in official supply channels, unregulated and farmer-based networks remain the primary source of seed for Ethiopian farmers across the country. This finding comes from a broader national initiative designed to map and digitalize Ethiopia's seed supply chain to better understand and manage agricultural inputs. The report highlights the heavy reliance of the agricultural sector on informal networks to meet crop production demands. Addressing these limitations in the formal seed distribution system is seen as critical for improving agricultural productivity and food security in the nation. The findings emphasize the need for systemic reforms to bridge the gap between supply and demand for high-quality seeds.