Top sectors for U.S. companies include agriculture, digital economy, energy, mining and consumer goods/franchising.  Opportunities are developing in healthcare, logistics and supply chain innovation.  

Agriculture continues to be the country’s major economic activity, employing over 70 percent of the population. Opportunities exist across the spectrum of farming to storage to animal husbandry and packaging. Technologies are sought throughout the value chain.  It is widely held that Tanzania will become East Africa’s breadbasket. This year, Tanzania strengthened this position by signing regional grain export agreements.

Opportunities in Tanzania’s nascent digital economy are quickly developing.  Local telecommunications companies seek partners for mobile applications and digital payment and financing, representing solid growth opportunities.

The Government of Tanzania is seeking partnerships with foreign companies to increase energy generation both on the mainland and in Zanzibar.  Several projects are currently in discussion and represent opportunities for U.S. companies, especially if paired with ExIm financing options.  Projects include the government’s planned Kinyerezi 3 and company-initiated power generation.

The mining sector is complex and offers both opportunities and challenges.  Similar to other regional countries, the government strictly regulates mines and mining operations.  Much of the legal and regulatory system surrounding mining is decades old and requires updating.  New laws are discussed by the government; however regulatory changes are yet to be realized.  Current laws and treatment do not favor investors, and international companies seeking to arrange deals with the government have not reached successful conclusion.  Immediate opportunities exist in mining technologies and mineral processing, which are among the government’s key development interests.

With the growth of the middle class, demand for American consumer products is expanding. There is strong interest in clothing and shoes, sporting equipment, and educational products.

Franchise opportunities abound in Tanzania spanning food to clothing to hotels.  Although few, the U.S. fast food franchises are incredibly successful and are expanding to Tanzania’s major cities.  Strong opportunities exist across the spectrum.  Wealthy Tanzanian families seek U.S. franchising opportunities.

The Tanzanian market is growing, and if your specific product or service is not listed above, we encourage you to contact the U.S. Commercial Service at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam for a tailored assessment of prospects for your firm’s product or service.