TZ steps up drive to conquer regional, global market

DODOMA: THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting the production of internationally competitive ‘Made in Tanzania’ products, as part of efforts to penetrate regional and global markets.

Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa gave the assurance yesterday in Dodoma while laying the foundation stone for the ongoing construction of Viwango House, a new facility under the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS).

The Premier stressed that for Tanzanian products to thrive on the global stage and ensure consumer safety, TBS must play a central role in verifying that goods and production processes conform to international standards.

He also urged TBS to intensify inspections of imported goods to safeguard the country from becoming a dumping ground for substandard products.

“TBS should urgently address public complaints regarding the presence of substandard goods in the market, particularly food, cosmetics and chemicals. You must prioritise public health,” he directed.

Mr Majaliwa commended TBS for enhancing the international reputation of Tanzanian products such as coffee, tea and cloves, which are now being exported to markets as far afield as Japan.

He said the 25.3bn/- Viwango House project is part of to establish modern testing laboratories in every zone, aimed at reducing costs and minimising the need to send product samples to Dar es Salaam.

The Prime Minister also issued six directives, calling for stronger collaboration between TBS, the private sector, government institutions and the public in promoting and consuming standard compliant products.

“Private firms must consult TBS to avoid losses resulting from product rejections. The media also has a critical role to play in educating the public about the importance of certified goods,” he added.

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Speaking during the event, Minister for Trade and Industry Dr Suleiman Jafo described the project as a major step towards reducing the long-standing burden of transporting samples to the commercial capital for testing. He noted that the new facility will house one of the largest and most advanced laboratories in East and Central Africa, significantly enhancing the country’s capacity for product testing and quality assurance.

“So far, TBS has inspected over 91,598 consignments and approved 28,642 samples. The agency is well-positioned to support Tanzania’s industrialisation drive,” said Dr Jafo.

He also announced an ambitious government plan to establish 9,048 industries across various local government areas over the next six years.