MWE Correspondent
Tanzania has launched one of its largest food reserve sales in recent years, inviting local and international buyers to bid for over half a million tonnes of non-GMO grain.
The National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) says the move aims to maintain the quality of its strategic reserves while taking advantage of strong regional demand for cereals.
The public tender, announced on October 16, 2025, involves a total of 534,000 tonnes of grain — 500,000 tonnes of maize and 34,000 tonnes of paddy rice. Maize is priced at a minimum of Sh850,000 per tonne, while rice carries a floor price of Sh1.1 million per tonne. The tender remains open until December 30, 2025, giving both Tanzanian millers and international traders a chance to participate.
If sold at those prices, NFRA stands to generate an estimated Sh462.4 billion, equivalent to roughly US$180 million. The agency says the proceeds will be used to replenish its reserves and support future purchases from local farmers.
Dr. Andrew Komba, the NFRA Chief Executive Officer, described the tender as part of the agency’s “routine market operations” aimed at preserving freshness in storage facilities. “It’s standard practice for us to sell and replace our stock,” he explained. “Grains stored for too long risk deterioration, so we regularly rotate our inventory. Fortunately, Tanzania currently has abundant grain supplies, allowing us to do this with confidence.”
He added that the NFRA plans to purchase around 300,000 tonnes of new grain this year, with projections to buy up to 600,000 tonnes next year depending on the harvest. “Our market serves both domestic and regional needs,” Dr. Komba said. “Last year, we sold about 300,000 tonnes — nearly 250,000 tonnes went to regional buyers while 50,000 tonnes were consumed locally. We expect this demand to keep growing.”
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The regional appetite for Tanzanian grain has been rising, particularly from East African Community member states that continue to face shortfalls due to erratic rainfall and logistical challenges. Analysts say the move could strengthen Tanzania’s position as one of East Africa’s most reliable grain suppliers.
However, experts have cautioned that the agency’s success will depend on how efficiently it handles transport and trade logistics. Improving grain storage infrastructure and reducing post-harvest losses remain crucial to maximizing profits and maintaining food security at home.
As the December deadline approaches, millers, traders, and exporters across the region are watching closely. For Tanzania, this sale could mark another milestone in its growing role as a regional food powerhouse — feeding its people and its neighbours alike.
