Ethiopia USDT P2P Market Update: Binance Raises Limit But Sellers Remain Scarce

In a significant move, Binance has increased the maximum P2P rate for USDT in Ethiopia from 161 ETB to 172 ETB, aiming to invigorate the local crypto market. However, despite the higher limit, sellers have largely stayed away, leaving buyers eager but unable to complete trades.

This shortage is not limited to Binance. Other major exchanges like Bybit and Bitget are facing similar issues, with very few sellers willing to offer USDT at current rates. Meanwhile, demand continues to rise, creating a supply-demand imbalance across the official P2P ecosystem.

The situation is different in informal markets. On Telegram P2P groups, USDT is being sold at 182–187 ETB, reflecting a premium over the official exchange rates. Similarly, Gate P2P shows MXCE and USDT trading between 180–190 ETB. This discrepancy highlights the persistent gap between regulated platforms and peer-to-peer markets in Ethiopia.

Market insiders suggest that sellers are waiting for either further rate adjustments or more stable conditions before listing their USDT on official platforms. Others are turning to Telegram and Gate to maximize profits, bypassing official limits altogether.

For traders, this creates both challenges and opportunities. Official platforms remain illiquid, slowing down transactions, while alternative channels allow buyers to access USDT — at a premium.

In summary, Ethiopia's crypto market currently shows high demand but low supply on Binance, Bybit, and Bitget, while informal channels reveal the true market value of USDT, far above official caps. The gap between official and unofficial rates continues to widen, leaving traders closely watching for any changes.