The government has urged investors, entrepreneurs and the public to seize emerging opportunities in Zanzibar's trade, tourism and blue economy sectors, saying greater private sector participation is key to accelerating economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing the competitiveness of Tanzanian products in regional and global markets.
Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Ayoub Mohammed Mahmoud made the call during Zanzibar Day celebrations at the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), popularly known as Sabasaba, where the Isles showcased their cultural heritage, locally produced goods and investment potential.
Speaking at the event, Mr Mahmoud described the annual trade fair as an important platform for promoting investment, expanding business networks and opening new markets for Tanzanian products and services.
He encouraged manufacturers, traders and entrepreneurs to make greater use of such exhibitions to strengthen market access while improving product quality, modern packaging and customer service to meet the demands of increasingly competitive regional and international markets.
"The quality of our products, attractive packaging and reliable service are critical if Zanzibar and Tanzania are to compete successfully in the East African region and beyond," he said.
Mr Mahmoud said the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar would continue implementing measures aimed at supporting businesses and manufacturers in accessing regional and international markets, including those offered under the East African Community (EAC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Despite its relatively small geographical size, he said, Zanzibar possesses considerable potential to produce competitive goods and services, noting that sustained investment in human capital, innovation and technology would strengthen the islands' economic performance and create more employment opportunities.
The event also highlighted Zanzibar's cultural identity through exhibitions featuring traditional attire, locally manufactured products and innovations aimed at promoting the Isles as a destination for trade, tourism and investment.
Meanwhile, Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) Director General Dr Latifa Mohamed Khamis said the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair has continued to strengthen its role as a meeting point for producers, traders and investors from within and outside the country.
She said Zanzibar's participation demonstrates its commitment to expanding trade, attracting investment and creating new market opportunities for goods and services produced on the islands, contributing to Tanzania's broader economic development.
The annual Sabasaba exhibition has increasingly become one of Tanzania's leading business promotion platforms, bringing together public and private sector stakeholders to showcase investment opportunities, strengthen commercial partnerships and promote the country's export potential.
