Local manufacturers and traders could soon have a permanent platform to showcase and sell their products following plans to establish a “Made in Tanzania” shop at the East African Commercial and Logistics Centre (EACLC) in Ubungo.
The proposed outlet is expected to bring locally produced goods closer to consumers while giving manufacturers and traders an additional channel to market their products and expand their customer base.
The initiative was discussed on September 17 when Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) Director General Ephraim Mafuru visited EACLC and held talks with the centre’s Director General, Catherine Wang.
Mr Mafuru also inspected the area earmarked for the shop, which is intended to provide a permanent space for displaying, promoting and selling products made in Tanzania.
The visit was his first to EACLC since taking over as TanTrade Director General and was also aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two institutions on trade promotion.
The planned shop could help address one of the challenges facing local producers—access to markets by creating a dedicated point where consumers can find a range of Tanzanian-made products.
For small and medium-sized businesses, improved market access can provide opportunities to increase sales, build brand visibility and reach customers beyond their existing trading networks.
Mr Mafuru thanked the EACLC management for supporting efforts to promote trade and pledged TanTrade’s cooperation in implementing the initiative.
He said continued collaboration between institutions involved in trade promotion was important in creating opportunities for local producers and traders and supporting economic activity.
The planned outlet is part of broader efforts to promote locally produced goods and strengthen the market for Tanzanian businesses.
However, the effectiveness of the initiative will depend on the range and quality of products available, its ability to attract customers and the extent to which producers can use the platform to access new markets.