MWE Correspondent
The Tanzanian government has announced ongoing efforts to open a new export market for pulses in Malaysia, a move expected to stabilize prices, increase revenue for farmers, and boost the country’s presence in international agricultural markets.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture, David Silinde, told Parliament on February 2, 2026, that the government is pursuing measures to facilitate the entry of Tanzanian pulses into Malaysia, which would provide farmers with access to a larger and more competitive market. Silinde was responding to a question from the Member of Parliament for Itigi, Yohana Msita, who asked about plans to raise the price of pulses after recent declines in local markets.
“Access to the Malaysian market will allow pulses to be officially traded internationally. This will expand market opportunities and strengthen prices for our farmers,” said Deputy Minister Silinde.
In addition to market access, the government has begun implementing a program to distribute high-quality pulse seeds to farmers nationwide. For the 2025/26 agricultural season, the Ministry of Agriculture plans to supply 400 kilograms of certified parent pulse seeds to farmers in the Itigi District. These seeds have the potential to produce up to four tons of improved seeds, enhancing productivity and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
“The goal is to ensure farmers can increase productivity and output to meet international demand while securing better prices,” Silinde added. Experts say this strategy not only benefits individual farmers but also strengthens the overall pulses sector in Tanzania by promoting higher quality production and efficiency.
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Agricultural analysts have welcomed the initiative, noting that expanding export markets is key to reducing post-harvest losses, mitigating domestic price fluctuations, and improving rural livelihoods. They also emphasize the importance of access to certified seeds in increasing yields and maintaining crop quality for international standards.
“The combination of seed distribution and new market access provides a comprehensive approach to supporting farmers and building Tanzania’s agricultural competitiveness,” said an independent agriculture economist.
The government’s efforts align with broader regional and global trade objectives, supporting Tanzanian farmers in participating effectively in international markets and contributing to agricultural export growth. In the long term, officials expect that integrating Tanzanian pulses into Malaysia’s supply chain will encourage other regional trade agreements, opening doors to further export opportunities.
Deputy Minister Silinde emphasized that these initiatives are part of a sustained strategy to improve agricultural productivity, income stability, and market access, reinforcing the government’s commitment to rural development and food security.
With these measures, Tanzania is positioning its pulses industry to meet international standards while ensuring that farmers benefit directly from expanding trade, better prices, and access to high-quality inputs.
