Government calls on regions to drive industrial growth

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has called for each region to establish at least three large-scale industries by 2030, as part of a transformative initiative aimed at reshaping the country’s industrial landscape.

Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, emphasised that this ambitious target is designed to stimulate economic growth, create significant job opportunities and enhance the overall industrial sector.

“By fostering a robust industrial base, the government seeks to improve the livelihoods of Tanzanians and ensure a prosperous future for the nation,” he said in Dar es Salam on Wednesday during the closure of the second Tanzania International Manufacturers Exhibition (TIMEXPO 2024).

The event was organised by the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) in collaboration with the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade) and coordinated by Radian Limited.

He said that, apart from the three large industries, each region should also have five mediumsized industries and no less than 30 small industries, with the goal of creating over 185,000 jobs.

“This development plan for industries and trade is expected to begin next year. Starting now, each region should allocate areas for building these industries to ensure success,” said Dr Jafo.

He explained that the government is committed to bring significant development to the industrial and trade sectors, among others.

He stressed the government’s goal to provide Tanzanians with numerous opportunities while urging industrial owners to produce high-quality goods to attract more customers and increase competitiveness in domestic, regional and international markets.

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According to Dr Jafo, the government continues to strengthen economic diplomacy and encourages industrialists and traders to seize available opportunities, stressing that global trade is free and highly competitive.

“Therefore, I stress the importance of our producers manufacturing high-quality goods that meet market demands. I urge our government institutions to act as facilitators and not hinder industrial development,” he added.

“I assure all industrial owners and manufacturers that my ministry will continue to support this sector to ensure the government’s vision of growing and advancing the industrial sector in the country is achieved.”

Dr Jafo also called for continued collaboration between the government and various institutions in discussions to resolve challenges facing investors.

In another development, Dr Jafo mentioned that the government is launching a major plan to revive industries that are not currently in operation, offering opportunities for private investors.

“For instance, there is a large cashew factory in Tunduru, which led to the loss of over 604 jobs. Additionally, there are more than 11 factories in Nachingwea, Lindi and Mtwara that are not operational.

I urge investors to be ready to invest in these factories when the government announces the need for new investors,” he said.

Mr Jafo also appealed to financial institutions to reduce interest rates to enable local investors to access capital.

He noted that many investors lack sufficient capital, calling on financial institutions to lower interest rates and attract more investors to obtain funding, enabling the country to have more industries and foster business and economic growth.

For her part, the Director General of the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), Ms Latifa Khamis, said the exhibition was successful, with participants increasing from 79 to 257.

“I encourage industrial owners to participate in upcoming exhibitions, which we believe will be even more successful,” said Ms Khamis.