Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s agribusiness sector is entering a transformative phase as exporters move strategically into one of the world’s largest consumer markets—China. From cashew processors in Mtwara and avocado growers in the Southern Highlands to seaweed farmers along the coast, producers are increasingly tailoring their goods for Chinese buyers whose appetite for African agricultural products continues to surge.
China’s recent decision to extend zero-tariff access to nearly all African countries has opened new opportunities. For Tanzania, where agriculture contributes nearly 30 percent of GDP and sustains millions of households, this shift offers a timely strategic advantage.
Benifrida Tarimo, Head of Agribusiness at Stanbic Bank, says Tanzanian producers are becoming more export-oriented as they adopt higher processing standards, secure certifications, and embrace market-driven production models. “The China market rewards consistency and quality, and Tanzanian exporters are rising to that challenge,” she noted.
She added that China’s demand for niche, natural, and health-focused foods has placed commodities like organic honey, seaweed, cashew kernels, and specialty coffees in a favourable position. Exporters report that Chinese buyers prefer traceability, strong branding, and added-value products—standards that Tanzanian producers are progressively internalizing.
Seaweed presents one of the strongest prospects. Used in food processing, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, it is attracting growing interest from Chinese buyers. Traders in Zanzibar and coastal Tanzania report rising inquiries. “Chinese demand is increasing, especially for high-quality dried seaweed. Our main challenge is scaling supply and meeting certification standards,” said Pemba-based trader Juma Ali.
China’s International Import Expo (CIIE) has also become a crucial marketplace for African agribusinesses. The platform allows exporters to market their products, study consumer preferences and build networks with major buyers. Success stories—from South African rooibos tea producers to Ugandan coffee exporters who secured multimillion-rand deals—illustrate its value.
Bill Blackie, Standard Bank’s CEO for Business and Commercial Banking, emphasizes the expo’s importance: “Platforms such as CIIE help SMEs translate potential into real growth as they secure partnerships and access global buyers.”
Tanzanian exporters who have participated say the expos have been particularly helpful in understanding packaging styles, flavour profiles, and branding strategies required to appeal to Chinese consumers.
Still, challenges remain. Exporters highlight logistical hurdles, the complexity of phytosanitary requirements, and intense price competition from other nations. This has increased the need for integrated support systems to help agribusinesses meet international standards with efficiency and scale.
Tarimo notes that financing plays a central role. “Exporters need capital aligned with agricultural cycles—production, storage, and shipment. Access to trade finance and working-capital loans is helping businesses meet China’s volume requirements,” she explained.
There is also a growing push within Tanzania to increase value addition. Cashew processors are expanding shelling facilities, coffee cooperatives are improving washing and grading systems, and honey producers are upgrading extraction and packaging technologies. The overall goal is to shift from exporting raw produce to capturing higher value through processed and branded goods.
Agricultural economist Prof Aidan Kwayu says the opportunity is significant but requires coordinated investment. “China is a vast market, but penetration requires consistency. Tanzania must strengthen cold-chain infrastructure, simplify certification processes, and support farmers with modern techniques,” he said. He added that regional blocs like the EAC could negotiate jointly on logistics and standards to reinforce competitiveness.
Some regions are already benefiting from the shift. Cashew-growing areas in Mtwara and Lindi report higher incomes due to rising demand from Asia. Avocado cooperatives in Njombe and Iringa are expanding production specifically for China.
“What we are seeing is a structural shift,” Tarimo said. “Exporters are no longer simply responding to demand—they are preparing for it. China offers scale, and Tanzanian agribusinesses are ready to grow.”
As Tanzania sharpens its export strategy and strengthens ties through cross-border platforms like CIIE, the country is well positioned to capture greater value from its agricultural potential and deepen its footprint in one of the world’s most influential markets.