Tanzania finalizes procedures to open Chinese market for chilli exports

TANZANIA – The Ministry of Agriculture has finalized procedures to allow Tanzanian chili producers to access the Chinese market, marking a significant development for the nation’s agricultural sector.

Tanzania’s chili producers are now able to export their produce to China following the completion of bilateral trade protocols.

The announcement, made by the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), outlines the conditions and procedures that chili exporters must follow. This opportunity, effective from September 6, 2024, marks a crucial milestone for the industry.

In order to export chilies (Capsicum spp.) to China, exporters must register with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) through the TPHPA.

According to the TPHPA, “All chili varieties, whether fresh or dried, are allowed for export, but exporters need to comply with specific regulations.”

These regulations include registering production farms and packhouses with the TPHPA to obtain a traceability code, ensuring the identification of exported produce.

“Farms that are registered must adhere to the best agricultural practices,” emphasized a representative from the Ministry of Agriculture. This includes integrated pest management to control quarantine pests such as fruit flies and leaf miners.

Additionally, processing, packaging, and storage must meet the requirements outlined in the agreement between Tanzania and China.

Exporters can reach out to the TPHPA via email or their website for further guidance on the registration process.

Tanzania’s chili exports have experienced growth in recent years, with the market value of chillies and peppers estimated at USD 29 million in 2023.

Tanzanian chilies are widely exported to markets such as Japan, the UK, the US, India, and South Africa, with demand driven by their use in food, cosmetics, and even military applications.

This expansion into China is expected to boost export figures further. “Accessing China opens a new chapter for Tanzania’s chili industry,” noted a TPHPA official, who added that this new market opportunity will create jobs and provide a steady income stream for farmers.

The TPHPA has also been recognized for its contributions to agricultural and economic development.

The authority was recently awarded first prize at the Arusha International Conference Center for its efforts in pest control, which have significantly benefited Tanzanian farmers. The award was presented by Tanzania’s President, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.

The TPHPA’s efforts in combating pests like rats and hummingbirds have helped secure food for over 58,000 farmers and saved nearly 900 acres of crops across 16 regions.

“These achievements demonstrate the TPHPA’s commitment to supporting farmers and safeguarding Tanzania’s agricultural future,” said the authority’s Director General, Prof. Joseph Ndunguru.

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