Dar es Salaam, 6 December 2024: Tanzania’s trade and investment ecosystem is at a crucial juncture, with the private sector contributing 33% to GDP and over 80% of formal employment, according to World Bank data. The Annual Trade and Investment Dialogue 2024 convened more than 400 business leaders, policymakers, and development partners to address critical challenges and define strategies to strengthen the nation’s economy.
Under the theme “Enhancing Efficiency in Sub-National Dialogue and Export Competitiveness for a Thriving Economy”, the event was co-hosted by the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA) and TradeMark Africa (TMA), with funding from UK International Development, Ireland, and Norway. The dialogue featured Hon. Doto Biteko, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, who reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable trade and investment through public-private collaboration.
Hon. Biteko, speaking as Guest of Honour, called for stronger partnerships to drive economic growth. “Tanzania’s trade potential is vast, but unlocking it requires a deliberate partnership between the private sector and government. Our vision is to position Tanzania as a trade and investment hub by creating an environment that promotes industrialisation and sustainable, inclusive growth,” he stated.
The dialogue addressed export competitiveness, structural challenges, and inefficiencies in dialogue mechanisms, with discussions focusing on empowering regional chambers, supporting local businesses, and positioning Tanzania as a competitive player in regional and global markets.
According to TCCIA data, Tanzania’s export market share in East Africa is 14%, highlighting significant room for growth. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to explore new markets, strengthen networks, and resolve trade barriers that hinder progress.
Mr Oscar Kissanga, Executive Director of TCCIA, stressed the significance of the dialogue, stating: “The private sector plays a critical role in driving economic stability and job creation. This dialogue serves as a vital platform for aligning strategies that unlock the potential of Tanzanian businesses, enhance export competitiveness, and empower regional chambers to address local challenges. The outcomes will chart a clear path for sustainable growth and strengthen Tanzania’s position in global trade.”
TMA’s Tanzania Country Director, Mr Elibariki Shammy, echoed the importance of partnerships in overcoming trade barriers. “TMA is committed to fostering sustainable and inclusive trade that drives economic growth and improves livelihoods. By addressing trade barriers and promoting intra-regional trade, we are enabling businesses to access broader markets and thrive in competitive environments. Initiatives like this dialogue are instrumental in strengthening systems that support local businesses, empower regional chambers, and position Tanzania as a leader in regional and global trade,” he remarked.
The event also featured sessions on consumer and company protection and dismantling trade barriers, as well as exhibitions showcasing local innovations. Networking opportunities enabled stakeholders to forge partnerships and identify avenues for mutual growth.
With trade accounting for 20% of Tanzania’s GDP, the dialogue concluded with actionable recommendations to enhance export competitiveness and empower regional chambers to address challenges effectively. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the event reaffirmed Tanzania’s potential to emerge as a trade hub in the region and globally.
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