Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 13 September 2024: The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, through the President’s Office, Planning, and Investment, in partnership with TradeMark Africa (TMA), has launched an initiative to accelerate investment, foster development, and improve the management of investment tools in Tanzania. As part of this initiative the launch of three trade development Reports: The National Investment Report 2023, the Guideline for Development and Management of Industrial Parks and Baseline Report. Together, these reports aim to transform Tanzania’s SEZ landscape and attract both domestic and foreign investment, driving the country’s industrial growth.
Fully supported by TMA, with funding from Ireland, UK International Development, and Norway, these reports provide an in-depth analysis of Tanzania’s SEZ operations, investment climate, and policy frameworks. The reports present a strategic roadmap to improve efficiency and competitiveness, positioning Tanzania a key player in regional and global economic transformation.
The National Investment Report offers a comprehensive evaluation of Tanzania’s investment landscape, providing insights into both domestic and foreign investments. It assesses the policies, laws, and strategies shaping the business environment, while also outlining the necessary measures to attract greater investment, including infrastructure improvements, regulatory streamlining, and enhanced incentives. The report further examines global investment trends, prospects for foreign direct investment, and the impact of macroeconomic factors on Tanzania’s economic potential.
Speaking at the launch, Honourable Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa stated, “The reports and tools being launched today will empower the nation to attract more investments, create job opportunities, and drive overall economic growth. The SEZ Guide will ensure that land designated for investment is utilized effectively, leading to improved infrastructure and drawing more investors. The investment report plays a crucial role in highlighting opportunities while also serving as a valuable resource for policymakers to identify areas for policy enhancement. Additionally, the Business Facilitation Portal will be instrumental in serving investors interested in the Export Processing Zones (EPZs). This portal will significantly reduce time and costs, while enhancing transparency for investors applying to operate within the EPZs.”
The Guideline for the Development and Management of SEZs serves as a practical tool for investors and stakeholders, offering clear guidance on land acquisition, planning processes, licensing procedures, and the incentive packages available for SEZ developers. It also provides critical insights into the monitoring and evaluation frameworks necessary to ensure the sustainable development of SEZs and outlines potential risks and mitigation strategies to safeguard investments.
Speaking at the launch event and on behalf of the development partners, the Ambassador of Ireland to Tanzania, H.E. Nicola Brennan, stated: “Ireland, along with other development partners, including the UK and Norway, is delighted to have partnered with TradeMark Africa and the Government of Tanzania over several years to support Tanzania’s ambition to attract high-quality foreign investment and achieve sustainable and inclusive economic transformation. I applaud the strategic thinking and collaboration that have gone into the development and launch of these important resources. These are positive developments, building on the Government’s commendable reforms to better inform and facilitate sustainable investment and trade, while strengthening Tanzania’s strategic position both regionally and globally.”
While reflecting on the launch of the Reports, TMA’s Country Director for Tanzania, Elibariki Shammy, highlighted the significance of the reports stating: “These reports provide a clear roadmap for transforming Tanzania’s Special Economic Zones, unlocking their potential to drive industrialisation, trade, and investment. By addressing the identified challenges and capitalising on the opportunities, we can make Tanzania a leading destination for economic growth in East Africa. Our collaboration with the President’s Office Planning and Investment along with our development partners is crucial to achieving this ambition.”
The Baseline Report provides a comprehensive assessment of the status of SEZs in Tanzania, identifying key challenges and opportunities within the existing framework. It offers data-driven recommendations for enhancing the regulatory and policy environment, fostering a more favourable climate for investment. Additionally, the report underpins the potential for SEZs to play a critical role in integrating Tanzania into regional and global value chains, thereby reinforcing the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
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