Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair widely known as Sabasaba has been a powerful engine for economic growth, generating more than 631,109 jobs over its 50-year history.
This year’s edition is set to create an additional 20,000 employment opportunities, underscoring the fair’s ongoing impact on the nation’s economy.
The milestone figures were revealed by Dr. Latifa Khamis, Director General of the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), during the official opening ceremony of the 50th Sabasaba fair in Dar es Salaam.
The event was graced by President Samia Suluhu Hassan and Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, who attended as the guest of honor.
Running from June 28 to July 13, the fair is organized by TanTrade, the government agency mandated to promote Tanzanian trade and investment domestically and internationally.
Dr. Khamis highlighted the fair’s pivotal role as a catalyst for commerce and economic development, stating:
"These achievements demonstrate TanTrade’s commitment to advancing trade, investment, and employment nationwide. We remain dedicated to supporting Tanzania’s development agenda through strategic trade facilitation and economic diplomacy."she added
She emphasized TanTrade's unique position as a bridge connecting various productive sectors with both local and global markets, with the Tanzania Brand campaign playing a central role in showcasing the country’s products on the world stage.
Over five decades, the Sabasaba fair has attracted participants from 59 countries including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and China and hosted over 38,000 exhibitors.
It has welcomed upwards of 74 million visitors, serving as a vital platform for linking producers, traders, and investors within Tanzania and beyond.
This connectivity has driven growth across diverse economic sectors and solidified Tanzania’s standing on regional and global trade maps.
For the landmark 50th anniversary edition, organizers anticipate over 4,800 participants and more than 624,130 visitors.
At least 352 business deals are expected to be finalized, alongside increased on-site sales.
These targets highlight the fair’s growing commercial significance as Tanzania intensifies efforts to deepen trade relationships and attract foreign investment.
Catherine Wang, CEO of the East Africa Commercial and Logistics Center (EACLC), principal sponsor of this year’s event, lauded the Ministry of Industry and Trade and TanTrade for their excellent preparations.
She described the Sabasaba fair as a crucial platform for fostering trade, investment, innovation, and economic cooperation between Tanzania and international partners.
Wang also praised President Samia’s leadership in enhancing the business climate and welcomed President Chapo’s presence, signaling strengthened bilateral economic ties between Tanzania and Mozambique.
Now in its fifth decade, the Sabasaba fair remains Tanzania’s premier forum for business leaders, investors, and development stakeholders from across East Africa and beyond.
This golden jubilee edition carries special significance as Tanzania positions itself as a leading trade and investment hub in the region, continuing to drive sustainable economic growth for generations to come.
