Govt targets $672m export boost

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government is targeting 672 million US dollars in exports through its Special Economic Zones (SEZs), leveraging ongoing projects across the country to boost industrial growth and trade.

So far, the government said, 34 SEZs have been designated, with 25 projects currently under implementation valued at 280.8 million US dollars in a bid to strengthen industrial growth and increase exports.

Tabling the Prime Minister’s Office budget estimates in Parliament in Dodoma recently, Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba said these projects are expected to generate exports worth 672.63 million US dollars.

“The government has continued to develop Special Investment Areas to strengthen industrial economic growth and increase the export of products,” he said.

Some of the key initiatives include the Bagamoyo, Buzwagi, Nala, Kwala and expanded Benjamin William Mkapa SEZs, as well as flagship ventures such as the Magadi Soda project at Engaruka and the Liganga– Mchuchuma iron and coal development.

Also, to reach the target, the government have come up with other strategies which include reducing 245 levies, amending 28 laws and strengthening service delivery through the Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority.

“These efforts have continued to improve the business environment and reduce investment costs,” PM Nchemba said.

The PM said to ensure that investments yield benefits for the citizens and align with national plans, the government has strengthened policy, planning and budget alignment so that all institutions implement national priorities in a coordinated manner.

He said the government has also prioritised the management of flagship projects to ensure their completion on time, within budget, and according to expected standards.

“This step aims to accelerate results in economic growth, job creation, industrial production and improved service delivery for citizens,” he said.

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The measures taken reflect the government commitment to building a results-driven economy that increases productivity in the production sectors. In addition, these measures raise per capita income for Tanzanians, aiming to achieve a high-middle-income economy with a national GDP of approximately 1.0 trillion US dollars by 2050.

He said in 2026/27, the government will continue strategic investments in various areas, including the Bagamoyo Special Economic Zone, Liganga, Mchuchuma and the Magadi Soda Engaruka project.

Additionally, he said the government will continue creating an enabling environment to promote and attract investment in the country and coordinate the implementation of Vision 2050 through annual and medium-term plans. The government continues to build an investmentdriven economy to accelerate economic growth and improve citizens’ welfare.

To demonstrate a firm commitment to achieving these goals, in 2025/26, 927 projects worth 11.08 billion US dollars were registered. This reflects the strengthening of the investment environment in the country and growing confidence among both domestic and foreign investors