TANTRADE tasked to expand promotion of products in demand for global markets

ARUSHA: VICE President Deogratius Ndejembi has directed the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TANTRADE) to intensify efforts to identify and expand international markets by establishing the products in demand and the quality standards required in those markets.

He said the move would help local producers align their products with international buyers’ requirements, improve competitiveness and increase exports.

The Vice-President issued the directive while touring exhibition pavilions at HortiLogistica Africa 2026, the International Horticultural Trade and Investment Exhibition, at the TGT Grounds in Arusha Region ahead of its official opening.

During the visit, he commended the private sector’s contribution, particularly through the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA), in empowering farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs to participate in horticultural production and trade.

He also directed the Ministry of Agriculture to step up efforts to promote avocado farming, citing its potential to increase foreign exchange earnings. He identified produce storage, the production of quality seedlings and training opportunities for young people as key areas requiring greater attention to attract more youth into the sector.

Citing examples of young people’s achievements in horticulture, Mr Ndejembi expressed interest in the progress made by Onocado Farm, a company led by a young entrepreneur who, through collaboration with TAHA, ventured into avocado farming and now exports more than 430 tonnes annually.

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He emphasised the need for TANTRADE to support youth participation in agriculture by strengthening their links with markets and collaborating with stakeholders to provide training on market requirements and product quality standards.

He said government support for young people engaged in agricultural production would encourage more people to enter the sector and contribute to national economic growth.

HortiLogistica Africa 2026 is being held from November 8 to 10, 2026, at the TGT Grounds in Arusha, through collaboration between the government and stakeholders in the horticultural sector, including TAHA.

The platform brings together farmers, producers, traders, buyers, exporters, investors and technology service providers from Africa and international markets to explore business, investment and partnership opportunities.