TBS pushes standards to boost trade
SINGIDA: THE Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has urged traders to effectively use standards information to improve product quality, build consumer confidence and boost competitiveness in domestic and regional markets amid increasing regulatory scrutiny and expanding trade opportunities.
TBS Central Zone Manager for Dodoma, Mr Hamis Sudi Mwanasala, said that the traders previously lacked adequate understanding of TBS mandate, which made it necessary for the institution to engage them and provide relevant education.
“By positioning standards compliance as an enabler rather than a regulatory burden, TBS is seeking to shift perceptions among traders and embed quality assurance into everyday business practices, particularly at the local government level where enforcement and awareness gaps remain,” he said during a meeting with traders in Itigi, Singida.
The call comes as Tanzania intensifies efforts to formalise small and medium enterprises and align local products with national, regional and international standards to curb substandard goods, protect public health and expand market access under the EAC and AfCFTA.
He said the response from traders was encouraging, noting that many attended the session, received the necessary education and reached a mutual understanding to cooperate with TBS.
“The response has been positive. Traders have turned up in large numbers, we have educated them and we have reached a common understanding. They now understand and are ready to cooperate with us, so we do not expect challenges going forward,” Mwanasala said.
On his part, Mitundu Traders’ Chairman, Moshi Hassan, said business operators in the area had gained in-depth knowledge about the TBS levy and issues related to TBS certification after meeting TBS officials.
ALSO READ: TBS invites public views as it develops the national standards
Mr Hassan noted that previously many traders lacked sufficient understanding of the TBS levy and its procedures due to limited access to accurate information about TBS responsibilities.
He said that through the training, traders have gained broader awareness of the institution’s functions and are ready to provide the necessary cooperation.
“TBS has educated us and now we clearly understand their work. We are ready to cooperate with them,” Hassan said.
He urged other traders to use the knowledge gained to cooperate with TBS and pay the levy in accordance with the law.
Cosmetics trader Nelson Jeremiah praised the training, noting it helped them understand product registration and related business charges, and called for regular continuation of such sessions.
