Dar es Salaam. The Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) is embarking on a strategic effort to broaden its global influence, positioning itself as a key player in attracting foreign investors.
This initiative, led by EPZA Director General Mr Charles Itembe, comes as a calculated response to the shifting dynamics of global investment and Tanzania’s broader economic goals. By expanding its outreach, EPZA aims to tap into new opportunities for industrial growth, signaling a shift toward a more globally engaged approach.
As part of this strategy, Mr Itembe recently led a special investment promotion mission to China, where high-level discussions were held with several prominent Chinese companies.
These discussions, held in early November, are expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration between Tanzania and international industrial investors, creating new prospects for growth in Tanzania’s industrial sector.
The agreements signed during the mission highlight a new direction for EPZA, one that focuses not only on attracting investment, but also on fostering long-term collaborations.
These partnerships will involve the exchange of vital information about investment opportunities, as well as sharing expertise to strengthen Tanzania’s industrial capabilities.
The mission’s success can be measured by the interest expressed by several Chinese firms, with at least ten companies indicating a desire to invest in Tanzania.
These potential investors have shown particular interest in sectors that are poised for growth, such as textiles, construction materials, food processing, and packaging.
The growing interest in these sectors signals a broader trend of diversification in Tanzania’s industrial base, moving away from traditional sectors like agriculture toward more value added industries.
“Soon, we expect to see these companies begin flowing into Tanzania for investment purposes,” Mr Itembe told The BizLens earlier this week, reflecting an optimistic view of the future.
But beyond immediate investments, the broader implication is that these partnerships could spark the growth of sustainable industries that contribute to long-term economic development.
Additionally, the establishment of a robust network for follow-up discussions with other companies still evaluating their investment options points to a forward-thinking approach by EPZA.
By maintaining open channels for dialogue, EPZA aims to convert interest into concrete investments.
In this context, EPZA’s strategic marketing efforts are crucial, as they have helped highlight Tanzania’s potential in sectors such as agriculture, textiles, leather, timber, coffee, tobacco, and electrical products.
These sectors are not only aligned with global demand, but are also central to Tanzania’s economic transformation agenda.
Perhaps one of the most significant outcomes of this outreach is the plan to open a dedicated EPZA office in Shanghai.
This move demonstrates EPZA’s commitment to nurturing long-term relationships with Chinese investors and providing a constant presence in one of the world’s largest investment hubs.
By having a representative based in Shanghai, EPZA is positioning itself to actively seek out new opportunities and maintain regular engagement with companies interested in Tanzania.
This initiative is also in direct alignment with the broader economic diplomacy strategy set forth by President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Her administration has been focused on positioning Tanzania as a competitive player in the global market, and the outreach by EPZA is a critical piece of this larger economic vision.
By attracting foreign investment, EPZA is contributing to the government’s goal of diversifying Tanzania’s economy and ensuring that Tanzanian products establish a strong foothold in international markets.
