FCC told to set ground for AfCFTA

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Mr John Simbachawene has directed the Fair Competition Commission (FCC) to thoroughly prepare for the upcoming African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Speaking during a press conference at the FCC offices in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Mr Simbachawene stressed on the importance of readiness as Tanzania finalises its accession into the African free trade market.

The deputy minister was on his first visit to the commission to familiarise with its operations.

He said that once the process is complete, the FCC will face greater responsibilities, particularly in managing the influx of counterfeit and substandard products at key entry points such as Dar es Salaam, Tunduma, Tarekea, Namanga and other border areas.

“As we move forward, we will be required to control counterfeit and substandard goods at our official entry points,” said Mr Simbachawene.

He further advised the FCC to strengthen its position in preparation for the AfCFTA, ensuring that it can effectively combat the entry of counterfeit products while safeguarding the country’s market.

“We must increase our efforts in regulating goods, as doing so will protect our economy. If we are not careful, foreign products will flood the market and many could be fake, thus harming domestic products,” he explained.

In addition to enforcement, Mr Simbachawene emphasised the importance of education on regulation and control to protect both the economy and consumers from the potential challenges posed by the free trade market.

“It is essential that we prioritise public education on regulatory matters, as this will shield both the economy and consumers from potential harm once the free market begins,” he said.

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Moreover, he called on the FCC to be vigilant when overseeing mergers between local and foreign companies, ensuring that Tanzanian companies and citizens are not exploited.

“If we are not careful with mergers, we could cause significant problems for the country,” he warned.
The FCC, established under the Fair Competition Act, has two key roles: overseeing daily operations and making decisions as a legal body to ensure fair competition in the market.

The deputy minister’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the FCC’s capacity as Tanzania moves closer to participating in the AfCFTA.

The AfCFTA, once fully operational, is expected to create one of the largest free trade zones in the world, offering significant opportunities and challenges for Tanzanian businesses.

As the countdown to the African free trade market begins, the FCC’s readiness will be key in ensuring the safety of Tanzania’s markets and protecting the country from the negative impact of counterfeit and substandard goods.