Joseph Isangura
The 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF) wrapped up on Sunday, July 13, marking a successful 16-day event with sales surpassing TZS 7.06 billion and orders exceeding TZS 44.4 billion.
Hosted at the Mwalimu Nyerere Trade Fair Grounds, the fair attracted local and international exhibitors eager to showcase Tanzania’s growing business potential.
During the closing ceremony, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa shared a clear vision to boost Tanzania’s trade sector and improve future fairs. He urged government ministries to deepen their collaboration with the private sector to overcome obstacles that limit participation in such exhibitions.
“We must engage directly with the private sector. Listening to their challenges, identifying what holds them back, and finding solutions will allow them to contribute more effectively to future trade events,” the Prime Minister said.
He also tasked the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) with ramping up efforts to open new markets both at home and abroad. Majaliwa pointed to the promising opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), encouraging a detailed analysis of exportable products to ensure Tanzanian traders can fully benefit from these vast markets.
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Beyond market expansion, the Prime Minister stressed the need for business environments in both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar to simplify procedures and cut through red tape that often hampers trade growth.
Majaliwa also highlighted rising demand for certain products like fish—including the small dagaa—and seaweed, which is increasingly valued in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
“To compete on the global stage, we need to produce high-quality goods that meet market needs,” he said. “Quality and market reach go hand in hand.”
In a bid to foster national pride and recognition, the Prime Minister called for all Tanzanian-made products to carry the “Made in Tanzania” label, helping to build a strong identity around local goods.
The fair’s success and the Prime Minister’s directives signal a renewed focus on Tanzania’s trade future, with increased attention on supporting private sector growth and leveraging regional trade agreements for greater economic gains.
