TZ horticultural exporters secure 4bn/- in deals at Asian Expo

ASIA: TANZANIA horticultural exporters have secured export deals worth 1.6 million US dollars (about 4bn/-) during a major fresh produce exhibition in Asia, reflecting growing international demand for the country’s fruits and vegetables.

According to CEO of the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), Dr Jacqueline Mkindi several member companies attracted commitments from international buyers at the Asia Fruit Logistica 2025 event.

Among the highlights Indian buyers signed deals worth 200,000 US dollars (about 493m/-), Chinese buyers committed to 100,000 US dollars (about 246m/).

Buyers from the Middle East signed contracts valued at 500,000 US dollars (about 1.23bn/-), over 100,000 US dollars (about 246m/-) and a major agreement worth 700,000 US dollars (about 1.72bn/-).

Dr Mkindi, who led the Tanzanian delegation, said the strong interest underscored Tanzania’s growing competitiveness in the horticulture sector, particularly for high-demand produce such as avocados, sweet melons, chilli, vegetables, bananas, oranges and mangoes.

“This growing demand shows the global market recognises the quality and potential of Tanzanian horticultural products,” she said.

She also thanked TradeMark Africa (TMA), the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) for their financial support in facilitating Tanzania’s participation.

ALSO READ: Dodoma traders invited to attend Trade Expo in Indonesia

Despite the success, exporters called for enhanced government support, including the development of bilateral trade agreements to unlock the full potential of Asian markets.

Exhibitors urged TAHA to advocate for bilateral trade negotiations with key markets such as Japan, India, China, Malaysia, Dubai, the UK, Saudi Arabia and North Korea, aiming to harmonise policies and remove trade barriers.

“Japan is a huge opportunity, especially for Tanzanian avocados, but policy alignment is essential to reduce restrictions and ease business,” one exporter noted.

Exporters also flagged logistical challenges, particularly the high cost of air transport to Russia, which they say limits Tanzania’s competitiveness compared to regional peers like Kenya.

They called for innovative transport solutions to tap into Russia’s growing demand.

Among the top market opportunities identified was the Valencia orange, with exporters urging the government to accelerate negotiations with India to open up access to its large consumer base.

Dr Mkindi said that with the right policy environment and trade facilitation, Tanzania could significantly expand its presence in global horticultural markets, boosting employment, foreign exchange earnings and rural development.