Reported October 31, 2026. Thumbnail: editorial illustration.
Key Takeaways
• 17% of LDC commercial-services exports came from Ethiopia in 2024, according to WTO–OECD findings.
• Ethiopia overtook Tanzania, whose share reached 15%.
• Ethiopia’s share increased from 7% in 2006.
• Transport represented 35% of LDC services exports, nearly double its earlier share.
• USD47 billion was the combined LDC services-export total in 2024.
• Five leading exporters supplied 57% of the group’s services exports.
• OECD warns bilateral Aid for Trade disbursements could fall roughly 22% between 2024 and 2026.
Market Impact
Ethiopia’s higher share strengthens its position within LDC services trade. Across the group, transport gained importance while travel remained the largest export category.
The wider market remains uneven: LDCs generated only 0.54% of global services exports. Potential reductions in trade assistance add financing pressure.
Key Numbers
• 17% — Ethiopia’s 2024 LDC share — leading position.
• 7% — Ethiopia’s 2006 share — historical comparison.
• 35% — transport’s LDC export share — sector growth.
Business Signal
Ethiopia leads LDC services exports, while concentration and tightening trade assistance remain constraints.