Call for Tanzania and Burundi to address non-tariff barriers to boost bilateral trade

BUJUMBURA: KIGOMA Regional Commissioner, Saimoni Sirro, has called on the governments of Tanzania and Burundi to address non-tariff barriers in order to ease the movement of goods and strengthen trade between the two neighbouring countries.

Ambassador Sirro made the remarks during the opening of the first joint trade exhibition organised through collaboration between the Tanzanian Embassy and the government of Burundi in Bujumbura from May 20 to 24, 2026.

Representing the Minister for Industry and Trade, Ms Judith Kapinga, at the event, Ambassador Sirro commended the Tanzanian Embassy under Ambassador Gelasius Byakanwa for initiating and implementing the strategy, describing it as a practical demonstration of economic diplomacy.

“These exhibitions have recorded remarkable success by attracting a large number of Burundian traders and citizens, who had the opportunity to explore a wide range of Tanzanian products including wine, rice, fish and cooking spices,” Ambassador Sirro said.

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The Government of Burundi was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Trade, Mines and Tourism, Ms Christine Nabigira, on behalf of the minister responsible for the docket.

She praised the initiative, saying it had yielded significant success and would serve as a catalyst for economic growth and stronger cooperation between the two nations.

Tanzanian traders who participated in the exhibition also hailed the efforts of the government for strengthening relations with neighbouring countries.

They further commended the Tanzanian Embassy for effectively coordinating the exhibition, saying the event had brought tangible business opportunities and positive results for participants.

The traders urged both governments to continue organising such exhibitions, noting that they would play a major role in enhancing trade ties and boosting the economies of both Tanzania and Burundi.