Tantrade reviews regulations to boost competition

TANZANIA’s Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) yesterday convened a stakeholder meeting to review draft trade regulations aimed at strengthening the country’s business environment.

The initiative seeks to create a more efficient, transparent, and productive climate for business, fostering a shared understanding among government agencies, private sector actors, and other stakeholders.

TanTrade Director General, Dr Latifa Khamis, said aligning policies with the needs of businesses and the broader economy will enhance competitiveness, expand market access for Tanzanian products, and support sustainable growth across sectors.

“Collaboration is essential to ensure the regulations are inclusive, practical, and effective for national development,” she said.

The meeting, held in Dar es Salaam, brought together business representatives, investors, exporters, and other stakeholders to review draft regulations designed to promote trade, facilitate operations, and expand access to domestic and international markets.

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TanTrade Director of Trade Promotion, Mr Tito Nombo, said the consultation is part of ongoing efforts to refine guidelines based on stakeholder input.

“TanTrade has a key responsibility to identify and promote markets for Tanzanian products at home and abroad. We also work to create an enabling environment for businesses of all sizes to grow, compete, and participate in trade fairs under clear policies and regulations,” he said.

Stakeholders stressed the need for practical implementation and inclusivity. Businessman Michael Mramba said improvements are needed in value chain certification to ensure quality standards, and clearer guidelines for trade fairs to promote products and connect businesses with markets.

He added that streamlining licensing procedures is crucial, particularly for small and medium enterprises, and that better coordination between government and private sector actors will improve efficiency and transparency.

He highlighted the need to support women- and youthled enterprises and to provide access to market information, including pricing, trends, and export opportunities, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and compete effectively both locally and abroad.

Tantrade Legal officer, Mr Francis Lemelo said that the draft regulations cover export procedures, new market development, trade fairs, market intelligence, support for small and medium enterprises, and promotion of the ‘Made in Tanzania’ brand.

The framework also addresses coordination between government and private sector actors, licensing and levies, use of the national trademark, and trade exhibition guidelines.

He insisted on the importance of the ‘Made in Tanzania’ label, saying a strong brand protects product identity, enhances credibility, increases market value, and positions Tanzanian goods on the global stage.