Tanzania pushes digital trade agenda
ZANZIBAR: DIGITAL trade is emerging as a key driver of job creation and economic growth, with Tanzania underscoring its importance at the 14th Conference of Trade Ministers in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
Tanzania is participating in the meeting represented by the Permanent Secretary from Zanzibar government, Dr Habiba Hassan Omar, on behalf of the Minister for Industry and Trade, Ms Judith Kapinga.
Dr Omar said digital trade is unlocking new economic and employment opportunities, positioning it as a catalyst for growth in the modern economy.
“Despite global challenges such as climate change and geopolitical tensions, international trade continues to expand under the framework of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
“Global trade in goods has grown from 5 trillion US dollars in 1995 to 25 trillion US dollars in 2023, while overall trade has increased fivefold since the WTO’s establishment,” she said.
Dr Omar noted that over the same period, average tariffs have dropped significantly from 10–15 per cent before 1995 to below 7 per cent to date, and under 4 per cent in developed economies.
Dr Habiba said the country committed to a fair, inclusive and development-oriented global trading system.
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She stressed that Tanzania stands with other developing nations and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in advocating for outcomes that deliver tangible benefits and shared prosperity.
She further highlighted that development must remain central to all global trade negotiations.
She noted that the nation is calling for strengthened special and preferential treatment provisions to enable developing countries to industrialise, add value to their products and build resilient economies.
The conference is expected to shape future trade policy directions, deepen international cooperation and provide a platform for member states to address current challenges while harnessing opportunities in the digital economy.
