China’s recent announcement to eliminate tariffs on imports from all African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations presents a rare opportunity for Tanzania to expand its export base, diversify its economy and build stronger trade ties with one of the world’s largest markets.
This is a particularly timely opportunity, given the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration and the impending expiry of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) in September 2025, whose renewal remains uncertain. To capitalise on this development, Tanzania must adopt deliberate and strategic measures to enhance competitiveness, improve product quality, and strengthen trade logistics and policy coherence.
Tanzania’s primary exports to China have traditionally included raw materials such as minerals (gold, copper, and rare earths) and agricultural products (cashew nuts, sesame seeds, and tobacco). With the elimination of tariffs, the Chinese market becomes even more accessible for a broader range of Tanzanian goods—particularly value-added products.
To maximise the benefits, Tanzania should transition from primarily exporting raw materials to increasing its share of processed and semi-processed goods such as textiles, leather products, edible oils, spices, and horticultural products. This shift would not only boost foreign earnings but also create jobs and stimulate domestic industries.
To support this transition, Tanzania must invest in upgrading its industrial capacity. Special emphasis should be placed on the agro-processing sector, which has significant potential given the country’s abundant agricultural produce. The government, in collaboration with the private sector, should invest in modern storage and processing facilities and promote the use of digital platforms for market information and export preparedness. This would help ensure Tanzanian products meet the stringent sanitary and phytosanitary standards required by Chinese consumers.
“To support this transition, Tanzania must invest in upgrading its industrial capacity.”
Moreover, Tanzanian exporters frequently encounter challenges related to logistics, bureaucratic inefficiencies and limited access to trade finance. To address these issues, the government should streamline trade-related procedures through platforms such as the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade). Simplifying export documentation, improving port efficiency at Dar es Salaam, and fully utilising the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) once completed could significantly reduce trade costs. Additionally, efforts should be made to negotiate mutual recognition of standards and certifications with Chinese regulators to minimise non-tariff barriers.
Tanzania should also leverage platforms such as the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to secure technical assistance, capacity building, and concessional financing aimed at trade facilitation and value addition. Joint ventures with Chinese investors in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics could further accelerate technology transfer and skills development among the local workforce.
Furthermore, Tanzanian embassies—particularly in Beijing and Guangzhou—should intensify trade diplomacy and actively promote Tanzanian products to Chinese buyers and investors. Participating in Chinese trade fairs, expos, and business forums could open up new markets for Tanzanian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them penetrate niche sectors within China.
In conclusion, China’s tariff elimination policy is not merely a diplomatic gesture—it is a call to action for Tanzania. By upgrading its production capacity, improving trade logistics, investing in industrial value addition, and deepening trade diplomacy, Tanzania can turn this opportunity into tangible economic gains. The time to act is now—before competitors secure the lion’s share of the benefits.
📌 Elly Manjale is an economic, business and management consultant based in Arusha who writes on economic, business, social and political issues
📧 Email: emanjale@gmail.com
