In 1930 about 25,000 dollars worth of liquor was imported via Djibouti. The high volume of imports was attributed by many writers to displeasure amongst the few who were able to afford the option with the domestic "filth" that was prevalent in local establishments. King Menelik even became concerned by the demoralising effects of araki (local gin) on nobility.

Source: Research by David Chapple, made before the 1974 revolution