Guangzhou. Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, has urged Tanzanians living in China to take full advantage of the growing economic opportunities between the two nations.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the Tanzanian diaspora in the city of Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, on June 15 Amb Kombo highlighted the strategic trade cooperation between Tanzania and China, noting that Tanzanian products now enjoy duty-free access to the Chinese market.
“Take action by seizing this opportunity and continue to encourage fellow Tanzanians to export more products to China in order to help balance our trade,” Amb Kombo said..
The meeting formed part of Amb Kombo’s ongoing official visit to China, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting Tanzania’s economic diplomacy agenda.
In addition to trade, Amb Kombo encouraged the diaspora to support government efforts by identifying and bringing in credible investors.
He noted that partnerships between Chinese and Tanzanian entities could help meet investment criteria in key sectors, thus boosting employment and driving economic growth in Tanzania.
He also called on the diaspora to uphold Chinese laws and avoid conduct that could tarnish the reputation of Tanzania, urging them to remain good ambassadors of their homeland.
Speaking on behalf of Tanzanians in Guangdong, Mr Hashim Twalib Shelali, the Chairperson of the local diaspora association, expressed gratitude to the Tanzanian Government for its continued support.
He cited the vital role played by both the Tanzanian Embassy in Beijing and its Consulate in Guangzhou in assisting nationals abroad.
Mr Shelali also affirmed the diaspora’s commitment to contributing to national development, boosting personal and national income, and participating in key democratic processes — including the upcoming General Election scheduled for October 2025.
As part of his visit, Amb Kombo also met with staff at the Tanzanian Consulate in Guangzhou.
He commended their dedication to implementing the country’s enhanced foreign policy, which was officially launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on 19 May 2025, and which places a strong emphasis on economic diplomacy.
He reminded diplomatic staff of China’s strategic importance as a trade and investment partner, urging them to remain focused on advancing Tanzania’s economic transformation agenda.
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