Dar es Salaam. Tanzania has set an ambitious goal of increasing its trade volume with Türkiye to $1 billion, under a strategic push to boost exports and deepen economic ties with one of its growing trade partners.
The target was announced on Wednesday during the signing of the Joint Trade Committee (JTC) agreement between Tanzania and Türkiye, a key framework to drive bilateral trade and investment cooperation.
Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, said the plan is part of Tanzania’s broader effort to diversify its trade portfolio and unlock new opportunities for local producers.
“Through a team of experts and active private sector involvement, we will intensify trade cooperation with Türkiye as a gateway to broader economic opportunities,” said Dr Jafo. “The key priority of our leaders is to grow our exports.”
Dr Jafo emphasized that the initiative reflects a serious commitment to economic diplomacy and transformation of trade relations with Türkiye, with a strong focus on industrial production.
“This is not just a symbolic target it represents a shift in how we approach international trade. We are strengthening our production capacity so that Tanzanian goods can meet the standards and demand of the Turkish market,” he said.
According to the minister, bilateral trade volume reached $284 million in 2024, with Türkish exports to Tanzania valued at $217 million.
While progress has been made, Dr Jafo noted that the volume remains relatively low given the vast untapped potential.
He identified key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and mining as priority areas for Tanzania to leverage the partnership.
“Türkiye has advanced technologies in agriculture and manufacturing. Strengthening cooperation in these areas will enhance productivity in Tanzania and contribute significantly to national development,” he said.
Dr Jafo also pointed to the growing diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. Since the reopening of the Türkish Embassy in Dar es Salaam in 2009 and the opening of Tanzania’s Embassy in Ankara in 2017, ties have deepened considerably.
He highlighted the significance of high-level visits including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Tanzania and President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s visit to Türkiye in 2024 which have laid the foundation for stronger bilateral cooperation.
The minister further acknowledged the contribution of Türkish firms to Tanzania’s infrastructure development, particularly in the ongoing Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project.
“Türkish companies involved in the SGR project have played a vital role not just in infrastructure, but in creating jobs and business opportunities for Tanzanians,” Dr Jafo said.
On his part, Mr Ali Goktug IPEK, the Türkish Chargé d’Affaires in Tanzania, reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to enhancing trade, investment, and cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and technology.
“The Joint Trade Committee will be a powerful platform to eliminate trade barriers, streamline procedures, and open up new opportunities for both our nations,” said Mr Goktug IPEK.
He added that under the leadership of President Erdoğan and President Samia, Türkiye and Tanzania are building a partnership based on trust, mutual prosperity, and sustainable development.
Source Daily News