Most, if not all, millers in Ethiopia use technologies (cold pressing machines) that are imported from China and India; they are primitive and characterised by high levels of wear and tear, power consumption and product loss.
Should oil be refined in Ethiopia?
According to the Ethiopian quality standard, all edible oil must be refined, although a number of specif- ic oilseeds can be semi-refined (see Appendix 1). Despite this requirement, many millers are selling crude oil particularly to the low income class. The government is planning to ban the sale of crude oil as from next year.
Can Ethiopia achieve self-sufficiency in edible oil by 2015?
The Ethiopian government is aiming to achieve self-sufficiency in edible oil by 2015. The aim of this research was to develop sustainable business models for millers, increase their competitiveness, and enhance food safety and security in Ethiopia within the changing policy context.
How many vegetable and animal oil producers are there in Ethiopia?
The available estimates vary. The 2009 CSA industry surveys estimated that there are 259 small-scale and 33 medium and large- scale vegetable and animal oil producers in Ethiopia.