Tanzania, Netherlands deepen cooperation in trade, agriculture

DAR ES SALAAM: Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its long-standing relations with the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with trade, agriculture and sustainable development emerging as key areas of cooperation.

Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr Ngwaru Maghembe, gave the assurance during King’s Day celebrations held in Dar es Salaam. The event brought together government officials, diplomats, development partners and representatives of international organisations.

King’s Day is the national celebration of the Netherlands and is strongly associated with the House of Orange. However, in Tanzania, this year’s commemoration also provided an opportunity to reflect on the growing partnership between the two countries.

Mr Maghembe said Tanzania values the Netherlands as an important partner whose experience in agriculture, water management, innovation and sustainable development continues to support national development priorities.

He noted that agriculture remains one of the strongest pillars of cooperation. In particular, Dutch expertise in horticulture, quality seeds, seed potatoes, poultry, aquaculture and agricultural value chains continues to align with Tanzania’s ambition to modernise the sector, increase productivity and strengthen food security.

The partnership also comes at a time when Tanzania is placing greater emphasis on technology-driven agricultural services. In February 2026, Tanzania and the Netherlands agreed to deepen cooperation in digital systems for agricultural services and crop trade, including capacity building around the Agricultural Trade Management Information System, which is being upgraded into e-Kilimo.

Mr Maghembe said the increasing trade and investment links between the two countries show the resilience of the bilateral relationship. He further emphasized that Tanzania will continue working closely with the Netherlands to advance mutual interests, especially in areas that create jobs, expand markets and support inclusive economic growth.

Netherlands Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Marjo Crompvoets, said the relationship between the two countries is entering a new phase, with greater focus on sustainable trade and investment. Ms Crompvoets has served as the Netherlands Ambassador to Tanzania since 2025.

The Netherlands has positioned its cooperation with Tanzania around agricultural trade, partnerships, innovation and investment. Its Tanzania programme also supports dialogue between public institutions, research organisations and the private sector, especially in areas that can improve production, strengthen value chains and open access to regional and international markets