Tanzania–China trade projected to pass TSh 31 trillion this year, The Citizen reports

Trade between Tanzania and China is projected to exceed TSh 31 trillion (US$12 billion) this year, up from TSh 29.82 trillion (US$11.28 billion) in 2025, The Citizen, a Tanzanian daily, reported on 21 October 2026.

The figures were cited on 20 October at a meeting in Zanzibar between China's ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian, and Abdi Mahmoud Abdi, Deputy Secretary General of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) in Zanzibar. It took place at the party's Zanzibar headquarters in Kisiwandui, Unguja.

Chinese investments have created more than 150,000 jobs in Tanzania across various sectors, according to figures presented by Chen. "The increase in trade demonstrates the significant opportunities available for expanding economic cooperation," Chen said.

Chen said China would continue to support development projects in Tanzania, including roads and airports.

Abdi said relations between the ruling parties of Tanzania and China had lasted more than 60 years, built on the friendship between Julius Nyerere and Mao Zedong. He called for more training opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs.

The Citizen also said China's zero-tariff policy for eligible Tanzanian exports could benefit Zanzibar producers of seaweed, spices and other agricultural products. Xinhua reported on 29 April that China would extend zero-tariff treatment to all African countries it has diplomatic ties with from 1 May 2026, and that the 33 least developed African countries had had it since 1 December 2024.

At a meeting for Tanzanian exporters in Dar es Salaam on 9 May, Chen said the policy would remove tariffs on products such as sesame, cashew nuts and other agricultural commodities, Xinhua reported. Industry and Trade Minister Judith Kapinga said the government would simplify trade procedures to support exporters. Chen put 2025 bilateral trade at US$11.28 billion, up 27 per cent year on year, and first-quarter 2026 trade at US$2.905 billion, up 28.1 per cent.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs gives 2025 trade as US$11.279 billion, of which China's exports to Tanzania were US$10.535 billion and imports from Tanzania US$744 million.