The Ministry of Trade and Industry has the power to restrict and/or limit imports and exports. There are few restrictions on the importation of some products that compete with locally produced goods.   

The following goods are prohibited imports to Ethiopia:  

• Used clothing.   

• Other items may also require a specific license to import.  Examples include: arms and ammunitions which are subject to an import prohibition, except where permission is granted by the Ministry of Defense; particular telecommunication equipment requires authorization by EthioTelecom prior to importing.   

• Imports of refurbished medical equipment for sale in the country is not permitted. Imports are permitted only in the case of use by the importer, and not for resale.  

• Goods of a commercial nature and quantity that are not imported through formal bank payment mechanisms.