Development is dependent on trade, political change and aid, minister Solheim said. The important happening illustrates a unique relationship between Norway and Ethiopia and a great development opportunity for Ethiopia. The Development Fund and Norad emphasised the importance of giving farmers new sources of income and increased income potential in order to fight poverty.
The Norwegian honey production is currently too small to meet the needs of the Norwegian consumers, and Honningcentralen has therefore been looking for a good honey from elsewhere in the world. A preliminary search in Africa was conducted in cooperation with Norad and the Development Fund. As Ethiopia is the largest honey producing country in Africa, it is no surprise that honey of good quality and relevant partners to start business were found here. The ambition is that 100-200 tons of honey from Ethiopia will be exported to Norway over the next 1-2 years. The goal is also to assist increased development through transfer of expertise and technology which will result in increased production and more beekeepers.
The Ethiopian honey is of high quality, harvested in areas without pollution and use of pesticides. Honey production provides little negative environmental effects. It is virtually the same as Norwegian honey in taste and consistency. However, Ethiopian honey is slightly sweeter than the Norwegian, with a little more powerful and longer aftertaste. Ethiopia has duty exemptions on imports of equipment for production and beekeeping and a program for guidance through the Agriculture Department's district office.
From September 2009 Ethiopian honey will be available in selected grocery stores in Norway.