Djibouti bars non-vessel operators from issuing bills of lading

Kiswahili

An unexpected policy change at Djibouti’s port has disrupted Ethiopia’s liberalized logistics sector. Officials have barred operators without their own vessels from issuing bills of lading, preventing new private multimodal companies from moving shipments. The informal decision has caught affected businesses off guard.

In recent weeks, Djibouti officials have quietly barred non-vessel-owning multimodal transporters from issuing bills of lading, a move that has upended Ethiopia's newly liberalized logistics industry. New private multimodal operators are now unable to move shipments as a result. The decision, communicated informally, has caught companies off guard.

This change was reported on December 20, 2025, by Bezawit Huluager, a Fortune staff writer. Djibouti's unanticipated policy targets operators lacking their own vessels, disrupting the flow of freight critical to landlocked Ethiopia, which relies heavily on the port. Businesses in the sector express surprise at the sudden enforcement, highlighting vulnerabilities in the recent liberalization efforts aimed at fostering competition in multimodal transport.

Makala yanayohusiana

Ethiopians pay more for commodities due to logistics costs

Logistics costs in Ethiopia account for 25-30% of commodity prices, making them up to 60% higher than in neighboring countries. The lack of direct sea access, infrastructure challenges, and reliance on the Port of Djibouti drive these elevated expenses. The government has introduced incentives for investors and plans to modernize the system to address the issue.

Djibouti’s largest port reports sufficient cargo handling capacity

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Djibouti’s Doraleh Multipurpose Port, the country’s largest facility, has stated it has enough capacity to handle an influx of cargo vessels rerouted due to the Persian Gulf conflict. Ships diverting from Jebel Ali Port are joining regular Ethiopian transit and transshipment operations without causing congestion. Officials emphasized ample storage and berthing space during a visit on April 7.

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