The introduction of the Zanzibar Single Window system is expected to significantly improve the business environment in Zanzibar by reducing bureaucracy and speeding up cargo clearance processes at entry points.
The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) said the new digital platform will bring together different government institutions under one electronic system, making it easier for traders to complete import and export procedures without moving from office to office.
Speaking on behalf of the TRA Commissioner General, Yusuph Juma Mwenda, during the official launch of the system held at Madinat Al Bahr Hotel in Mazizini, Zanzibar, the TRA Deputy Commissioner for Zanzibar, Saleh Haji Pandu, said the system marks an important step in modernizing trade services in the country.
He said that previously, traders were required to visit multiple government offices to complete clearance processes for goods, a situation that caused delays and increased the cost of doing business.
“With the introduction of this system, government institutions will now work together through a single digital platform. This will reduce delays, improve efficiency, and make services more transparent,” he said.
He added that the system is part of wider government efforts to improve digital services, strengthen cooperation between institutions, and support economic growth through improved trade facilitation.
Pandu further noted that the system will also help reduce fraud and improve revenue collection by ensuring that all processes are tracked electronically.
“Digital systems like this are important because they help government improve accountability while also increasing revenue collection for development projects,” he said.
The project has been developed with support from the Korea Customs Service (KCS). The Director General of Information Technology Services at KCS, Kim Ki-dong, said the introduction of modern digital systems will strengthen customs operations in Zanzibar and Tanzania as a whole.
He said Korea Customs Service will continue to work closely with Tanzania to support the development of modern customs systems that use advanced technology to improve efficiency and service delivery.
On his part, the President of the Zanzibar Freight Brokers Association (ZFB), Omar Hussein Mussa, said clearing goods at the moment remains a challenge for many agents due to the need to visit more than 14 different institutions before completing the process.
He said the new system will greatly reduce this burden by allowing all procedures to be completed through one platform.
“At the moment, we move from one institution to another and handle many documents before clearing goods. This system will change that completely and bring efficiency that matches global standards,” he said.
The Zanzibar Single Window system is expected to speed up trade processes, improve coordination between government institutions, enhance revenue collection, and create a more competitive and attractive environment for investment and business in Zanzibar.
