The United Republic of Tanzania has taken part in two major East African Community (EAC) ministerial meetings in Nairobi, Kenya, pushing for decisions aimed at reducing trade barriers, lowering business costs, and improving economic opportunities for citizens across the region.
The meetings the 47th Sectoral Council of Ministers on Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment (SCTIFI) and the Second Extraordinary Meeting on Finance and Economic Affairs were held from 19 to 25 November 2025. All eight EAC member states attended.
For Tanzanians, one of the most important issues discussed was the long-standing challenge of extra fees, charges and taxes imposed at borders by partner states.
These levies often increase the cost of goods for consumers and make it harder for small traders and transporters to operate smoothly across the region.
The ministers reviewed the full list of such charges, many of which violate Articles 10 and 15 of the EAC Customs Union Protocol.
By addressing these non-compliant fees, the region aims to support fair competition, reduce delays at borders, and make everyday goods more affordable for citizens.
The meetings also examined reports from committees responsible for trade, customs, investment, standards and competition.
These areas directly affect the quality of products entering the market, the speed of cross-border movement, and the ability of local industries to compete fairly—issues that touch the daily lives of millions of East Africans.
Tanzania’s delegation included experts from the President’s Office – Finance and Planning (Zanzibar), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) and the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS). The team was led by Zanzibar’s Minister for Finance and Planning, Hon. Dr. Juma Malik Akil.
The government’s participation highlights its commitment to ensuring that EAC decisions translate into practical benefits for ordinary people from cheaper goods and improved standards to smoother business operations and wider opportunities for youth and women engaged in trade.