By Charles Mkoka
Pwani – The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has called on investors, production facilities, and entrepreneurs in the Pwani Region to register their production sites, depots, and stores before marketing their products.
This directive primarily targets businesses engaged in the manufacturing, selling, or storage of food and cosmetic products, emphasizing the critical role of quality assurance in safeguarding consumers and producers alike.
Speaking at the Industrial and Investment Exhibitions in Pwani, TBS Eastern Zone Manager, Ms. Noor Meghji, underlined the importance of product registration and certification.
She highlighted the government’s commitment to facilitating compliance by offering free product certification services to small-scale producers referred by institutions such as the Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO).
“SIDO plays a pivotal role in supporting small-scale producers. Once referred to us, TBS certifies their products at no cost. There is no reason for anyone to market products without a quality mark,” said Meghji.
Meghji lauded the efforts of the Pwani Regional Commissioner in organizing a successful exhibition, which she noted served as a platform for exhibitors to better understand the necessity of maintaining product quality.
“Without certifying the quality of your products or systems, the sustainability of your business and investments is at risk,” she cautioned.
During the exhibition, Meghji elaborated on the responsibilities and services offered by TBS, which include product and system certification, product testing, and the inspection of goods being sold or distributed.
She emphasized TBS's ongoing efforts to monitor the quality and safety of products entering the Tanzanian market, as well as those produced locally.
“TBS has been inspecting imported goods for years to ensure they meet the required standards. Additionally, we inspect products before they are brought into the country to prevent substandard goods from reaching consumers,” she said.
TBS currently operates nine laboratories equipped to test a wide range of products, offering both regulatory and independent testing services.
Meghji highlighted that these facilities also support exporters by ensuring their goods comply with international quality standards.
“Producers intending to export goods can utilize TBS services to meet the quality and safety requirements of their destination countries. Our certification guarantees that your products are compliant, enabling smooth exportation,” Meghji explained.
TBS's participation in the Industrial and Investment Exhibitions reflects its commitment to promoting quality standards and fostering sustainable economic growth in the region.
Meghji’s message was clear: compliance with quality standards not only protects consumers but also boosts the competitiveness and longevity of businesses.
As TBS continues to support local and regional enterprises, the Bureau remains steadfast in its mission to uphold quality and safety standards across all sectors of the economy.