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President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to officially launch the East African Commercial and Logistics Centre (EACLC) today in Dar es Salaam—a massive project poised to position Tanzania as a leading gateway for trade and investment across the East African region.
The new centre, located at the site of the former Ubungo Bus Terminal, is designed to become a central hub for logistics, cross-border trade, and retail operations. It’s a key part of President Samia’s broader development agenda, which focuses on infrastructure, connectivity, and job creation.
Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila described the launch as “a milestone in Tanzania’s journey to economic transformation.” He added that the opening ceremony will bring together a diverse mix of participants, including current tenants, potential investors, members of the diplomatic corps, and top business leaders from the region and beyond.
“This isn’t just a building—it’s a symbol of Tanzania’s readiness to compete globally and integrate more deeply with its neighbours,” said Chalamila.
A Hub Designed for the Future
The EACLC is a sprawling, modern facility that includes more than 2,000 business units, as well as offices, storage areas, supermarkets, restaurants, and customs services. It’s tailored to support both domestic and international traders, with easy access to Tanzania’s Standard Gauge Railway, highways, and the Port of Dar es Salaam—making it an ideal spot for import-export operations.
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With a total investment of over $110 million USD, the logistics centre is projected to create over 15,000 formal jobs, and at least 50,000 informal employment opportunities, according to officials. It’s also expected to generate millions in annual revenue through rent, customs services, and tax contributions.
“This project supports President Samia’s vision of turning Tanzania into a strategic economic engine—not just for East Africa, but for the entire African continent,” said one economist familiar with the development.
According to Chalamila, the EACLC will open doors for local businesses and entrepreneurs by offering affordable commercial spaces and access to regional markets. He noted that the government is working with the Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) to streamline investment procedures and attract more tenants—especially in manufacturing, retail, and international logistics.
Addressing fears from local traders that the project could displace small businesses or compete with markets like Kariakoo, Chalamila was quick to reassure the public: “This isn’t about replacing anyone. It’s about expanding opportunities and creating a system where both traditional and modern markets can grow together.”
He drew parallels to other successful public-private developments like Mlimani City, noting that government partnerships with the private sector can boost the economy without excluding local traders.
The opening of the EACLC reflects a wider effort by Tanzania to position itself as a regional logistics and trade hub in line with the goals of the East African Community (EAC). With improved infrastructure, simplified trade procedures, and growing investor interest, Tanzania aims to attract more foreign direct investment (FDI) and play a bigger role in continental commerce.
“This is more than a building. It’s a bridge to opportunity,” said one local trader preparing to open a shop in the new facility.
