Tanzania in talks with China to ease visa access for its citizens engaged in business ventures

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government says it is continuing discussions with the Chinese Government aimed at easing visa access for Tanzanians, particularly businesspeople travelling to China for commercial activities and to source products.

Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Dr Ngwaru Jumanne Maghembe, made the remarks in Parliament in Dodoma on August 28, 2026, while responding to a question from Kinondoni MP Abbas Gulam Tarimba.

The MP had asked whether the Government could engage the Chinese authorities to simplify visa procedures for Tanzanians travelling to China to source and import goods.

In response, Dr Maghembe said Tanzania had already initiated discussions with China to request the introduction of different categories of visas that would make it easier for Tanzanian businesspeople to travel to the country.

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He said one of the steps taken involved discussions between President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Chinese Ambassador, during which China was asked to consider issuing long-term visas to businesspeople. The Chinese government is currently considering the request.

Dr Maghembe said implementation of the proposal would help reduce challenges faced by businesspeople who frequently travel to China and facilitate their commercial activities.

However, he urged Tanzanians planning to travel to China to continue complying with requirements and procedures set by the relevant authorities, including submitting visa applications at least three weeks before their intended travel dates.

He said the government will continue engaging its Chinese counterpart to find solutions to challenges facing Tanzanians in obtaining visas, while seeking to facilitate trade and travel between Tanzania and China.