Tanzania to unlock USD 3.5B in export potential with market access for eight key crops

TANZANIA – Tanzania has taken a major leap towards expanding its agricultural exports with the preparation of market access documentation for eight key crops across 14 countries, paving the way for a potential USD 3.5 billion in economic opportunities.

The crops include vanilla, pineapple, avocado, mango, cocoa, and tobacco, among others.

The Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and in collaboration with the European Union, finalized and launched the market access dossier on September 18, 2024.

The launch event, held at Morena Hotel in Dodoma, saw the presence of Hon. David Silinde, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, who handed over the documents to Salvatory Mbilinyi, Representative of the Secretary-General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Silinde highlighted the transformative potential of this initiative. “These documents will remove the barriers that have previously limited the export of Tanzanian crops, opening new avenues for growth,” he stated.

The market access documentation is a crucial step in ensuring that Tanzania’s agricultural products meet the international standards required by importing countries, enabling producers to tap into new markets.

Prof. Joseph Ndunguru, Director General of the TPHPA, emphasized the significance of improving market access by adhering to hygiene standards and adopting modern agricultural technologies.

“To compete internationally, we must focus on both quality and safety. The verification of hygiene standards is a key part of this process,” Prof. Ndunguru noted.

He also stressed the need for constant adaptation to new technologies, ensuring that Tanzanian produce remains competitive in global markets.

Boost for chili exports to China

In another significant development for the country’s agricultural sector, Tanzanian chili producers can now export to China, following the finalization of bilateral trade protocols.

Effective from September 6, 2024, the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA) announced that all chili varieties, whether fresh or dried, are eligible for export.

Exporters must comply with a set of regulations to ensure the produce meets China’s stringent quality standards.

This includes registering production farms and packhouses with the TPHPA, which will issue traceability codes to identify the exported products. Farms must also adhere to best agricultural practices, such as integrated pest management, to control pests like fruit flies and leaf miners.

“Exporting chilies to China opens up a massive opportunity for our farmers,” said a Ministry of Agriculture representative. “This will further boost Tanzania’s standing as a significant player in the global agricultural market.”

The collaborative efforts between government leaders, the private sector, and development stakeholders reflect Tanzania’s unified approach to strengthening its agricultural sector.

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