The government is set to launch a special operation on August 17, 2026, to enforce laws governing foreign participation in business, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has said.
The operation will focus on foreign traders and investors suspected of conducting commercial activities outside the scope of their permits and licences, amid complaints from Tanzanian traders over growing competition in some areas of commerce.
Speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam on August 11, Mr Chalamila said foreign nationals coming to Tanzania for investment and business must comply with the conditions attached to their permits and operate only in activities legally authorised for them.
He said the government had received complaints that some foreign businesspeople were engaging in activities ranging from importing goods and clearing and forwarding to cargo transportation, wholesale and retail trade.
“The government wants every business operator to conduct activities in accordance with the laws, licences and regulations governing commerce in the country,” Mr Chalamila said.
He said the operation would help identify businesses and individuals operating outside the terms of their licences and enable authorities to take appropriate action where violations are established.
The Regional Commissioner said authorities would also continue educating foreign nationals on Tanzania's business and investment procedures to help them understand what activities they are permitted to undertake.
The move comes as the government seeks to balance the need to attract foreign capital with the protection of business opportunities available to Tanzanian citizens.
Mr Chalamila stressed that the enforcement campaign should not be interpreted as a move against foreign investment.
He said Tanzania remains open to foreign investors and businesspeople, but they must respect the country's laws and operate within the conditions of their permits.
The government, he added, would also ensure that commercial activities reserved for Tanzanian nationals are protected, while promoting fair competition among businesses operating legally in the country.
The August 17 operation is therefore expected to test how effectively authorities can enforce existing rules while maintaining Tanzania's investment-friendly environment and protecting opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
