Poultry production systems are outlined under the social and physical environmental conditions of Ethiopia. The results of research on the performance of local domestic fowl and on the performance and adaptability of imported stocks and resulting crosses with native fowl are also assessed. Farmyard/backyard type production, in which native fowl scavenge for most of their food, predominates and is widespread in the rural community. Both state and privately owned commercial farms using imported stocks are beginning to develop around urban centres. The egg production and growth rates of native stocks are low. Under prevailing management conditions it has been found that crosses between native stock and imported White Leghorns, incorporating about 60% White Leghorn blood, perform better than either parent types.