Govt committed to unlocking economic potential – Biteko
DAR ES SALAAM: DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Dr Doto Biteko has said the government is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment, including streamlining regulations, improving infrastructure and collaborating closely with the private sector to unlock Tanzania’s economic potential.
He made the remarks in Dar es Salaam on Friday while inaugurating the 2024 GovernmentPrivate Sector Business and Investment Dialogue Forum and the 49th Annual General Meeting of the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (TCCIA).
Dr Biteko further said the private sector was crucial, noting that in Tanzania and across Africa, an estimated 1.2 billion young people enter the job market, with 70 per cent relying on the private sector.
“Recently, you raised several complaints, including issues hindering business operations. The government has addressed these in partnership with you and development stakeholders both locally and internationally,” Dr Biteko said.
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He outlined government initiatives to improve the business environment, including amending 55 laws and 16 regulations, with ongoing reviews.
“The government has streamlined responsibilities, establishing bodies such as the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) to simplify your operations. We’ve also reduced service delivery times, from 14 days to three and the shipping duration from Dar es Salaam to Tunduma from seven days to three,” he said.
Dr Biteko further said that the Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA) had removed 16 business fees, resulting in a government revenue loss of 37bn/-.
On economic indicators, Dr Biteko said a rise in electricity demand, which had previously never exceeded 219 MW per year but is projected to reach 420 MW in 2024.
“When businesses grow, electricity demand increases because more factories are being built and the economy is picking up. Households now consume 52 MW and industries consume 48 MW, signalling healthy economic growth,” he added.
