Tanzanian exporters secure USD 2.8M deal to supply UK with fresh produce

TANZANIA – Tanzanian exporters have sealed agreements to supply the United Kingdom with 960 metric tons of fruits and vegetables annually, marking a significant boost for the country’s horticulture sector.

This deal, valued at approximately USD 2.8 million per year, was facilitated by the Tanzania Horticultural Association (TAHA) as part of efforts to expand international market access for local producers.

The deal was confirmed by Anthony Chamanga, TAHA’s chief development manager, who emphasized that the UK market offers a promising opportunity for Tanzanian horticultural products.

“There is growing demand for fresh produce, especially fruits and vegetables, among the health-conscious UK population,” Chamanga explained.

This demand has made fruits and vegetables the leading food items imported into the UK, highlighting the potential for sustained growth.

Tanzania’s high commissioner to the UK, Mbelwa Kairuki, played a crucial role in facilitating the connection between local exporters and UK buyers, working closely with TAHA to create this opportunity.

The collaboration is expected to significantly impact the local economy, with estimates suggesting the deal will generate around 3,800 jobs in the supply chain, contributing to employment growth in Tanzania’s agricultural sector.

The Horticulture Exports Accelerator Program (HEAP), in partnership with TAHA, was instrumental in supporting eight local companies that participated in discussions with UK importers.

These companies showcased their produce at an event organized by the Fresh Produce Consortium, a leading body in the UK, and visited Spitalfields Market, one of the UK’s primary hubs for fresh produce imports.

Dr. Jacqueline Mkindi, CEO of TAHA, praised the initiative, stating that “HEAP is empowering Tanzanian exporters to take advantage of free trade agreements and meet international standards.”

She further noted that this program helps Tanzanian companies strengthen their export capacity and build lasting relationships with UK and European markets.

Impact on Tanzania’s horticulture sector

Tanzania’s horticulture sector has been growing steadily, with exports generating around $289.6 million in 2022.

While this marked a decrease from the USD 378.6 million recorded in the previous year, the sector is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

Analysts project that the country’s horticultural exports could reach a value of $3 billion by 2025, driven by increasing demand in markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

The sector’s main exports include high-value crops such as avocados, raspberries, and limes. TAHA has been working diligently to enhance the quality of these products, reduce postharvest losses, and improve packaging and traceability systems to meet the demands of international buyers.

Despite the positive developments, the horticulture sector still faces challenges such as inconsistent product quality and high postharvest losses.

TAHA’s efforts, along with initiatives like HEAP, are seen as essential in addressing these issues and improving the competitiveness of Tanzanian produce in global markets.

With the new agreements in place, Tanzanian exporters are well-positioned to increase their presence in the UK market, fostering a mutually beneficial trade relationship that is likely to continue growing.

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