Xifres de comerç exterior de Tanzània

Foreign Trade in Figures

Tanzania is relatively open to foreign trade, with trade accounting for 38% of its GDP according to the World Bank's latest data available. The country's trade policy aims to create competitive local industries and diversify its export sector to stimulate economic growth. Tanzania is a member of several regional and international trade agreements, including the East African Community (EAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The country has also implemented measures to facilitate international trade, including the single window system for trade documentation and the establishment of trade facilitation committees. In 2023, gold was the leading export item, constituting 42% of the total, followed by unmanufactured tobacco; tobacco refuse (4.7%), dried leguminous vegetables (3.8%), other oil seeds and oleaginous fruits (3.2%), and coffee (3.2%). On the other hand, petroleum oils (19.9%), wheat and meslin (3.1%), tractors (2.8%), and motor cars and other motor vehicles (2.5%) were among the top imports, as per Comtrade data.

In terms of partner countries, India was the main export destination in 2023 (21.4%), ahead of South Africa (15.4%), the United Arab Emirates (9.4%), Switzerland (6.4%), China (5.9%), and the Democratic Republic of Congo (4.3%). In the same year, China (27.5%), India (12.9%), the United Arab Emirates (9.4%), Saudi Arabia (6.1%), and Japan (4.3%) were the primary import origins (data Comtrade). Tanzania maintains low customs duties (with a trade-weighted tariff rate of 9.09%) and few trade restrictions, making it accessible for international trade. However, trade barriers, mainly logistical and non-tariff in nature, persist. For instance, congestion at the Dar es Salaam port, the main entry and exit point for merchandise, presents a significant challenge due to inadequate infrastructural investments. Poorly maintained roads and railways further hinder trade, despite government initiatives to improve infrastructure. Challenges also exist in obtaining construction permits, registering land, and tax payments.

Tanzania faces a chronic trade deficit due to a capital-intensive growth model that relies heavily on oil and capital goods imports. In 2023, merchandise exports amounted to USD 7.29 billion, while imports reached USD 13.81 billion; while services exports reached USD 6.26 billion (with revenues stemming mainly from tourism), with imports at USD 2.33 billion. The World Bank estimated the country's overall trade deficit at 3.8% of GDP (from 4.2% in 2022). Data from the Bank of Tanzania indicate that the country’s external sector improved in 2024, with exports of goods and services rising by 15.1% to USD 16,093.1 million. Imports reached USD 16,789.9 million, up from USD 16,058.7 million in 2023, mainly due to industrial products, refined petroleum, and freight payments. The current account deficit narrowed by 28.6% to USD 2,113.5 million, driven by higher mineral, agricultural, and tourism earnings. Gold exports totalled USD 3,369.7 million, 36.8% of total goods exports, mainly due to price effects. Service receipts grew by 10.6% to USD 6,948.2 million, supported by tourism and transportation. Travel receipts rose by 8.38% to USD 3,656.7 million, boosted by higher international arrivals.