Tanzania\’s Farm Exports Rise in China
Expansion of Tanzania\’s Agricultural Exports to China
Tanzania is witnessing a significant expansion in its agricultural exports to China, with a variety of products gaining traction in the Chinese market. These include sesame seeds, dried chillies, cotton seed cake, dried cassava, avocado, honey, and marine products. This growth is being celebrated as a testament to the strengthening ties between Tanzania and China.
During the celebrations marking the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on Monday, September 29, Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo highlighted the increasing demand for Tanzanian goods in China. He expressed gratitude for China\’s initiative of granting duty-free access to African goods, which has created new opportunities for Tanzanian farmers and traders.
\”We are seeing real results, with our products finding pathways into the Chinese market. Beyond avocado and honey, sesame, cassava, cotton seed cake and chillies are now in demand,\” said Mr. Kombo.
Key Agricultural Products in Demand
Sesame seeds, which are widely used in Chinese cuisine, including bread, sweets, and Beijing duck, are among the most sought-after products. The minister also pointed out that cotton seed cake is becoming increasingly popular for mushroom cultivation in China.
\”We need to learn from China how they use cotton seed cake for mushroom farming. It is an area we could develop locally,\” he stated.
Chillies, particularly popular in Sichuan Province, are another product seeing increased demand. Additionally, sunflower seed cake and marine products are entering the Chinese market, further diversifying the range of Tanzanian exports.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Mr. Kombo described the growing exports as proof that Tanzania-China relations are delivering tangible results. He emphasized that this year\’s focus has been on deepening cooperation, coordinating on bilateral and multilateral issues, and accelerating joint initiatives.
The Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania, Chen Mingjian, highlighted China\’s remarkable progress in innovation, including artificial intelligence, supercomputers, deep-sea exploration, and new energy technologies. She noted that China contributes nearly 30 percent annually to global economic growth.
\”China has always placed its development within the broader framework of human development and solidarity with the Global South,\” she said. \”We have lifted 850 million people out of poverty and advanced global cooperation.\”
Economic Ties and Trade Growth
Ambassador Chen added that China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching almost $300 billion in 2024. Under the zero-tariff arrangement, 53 African countries now enjoy duty-free access to the Chinese market, boosting exports from the continent.
\”China has expanded imports of Tanzanian products, including honey, avocado and aquatic goods. We have also invested in health projects such as the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute and medical training programmes,\” she said.
Agricultural Cooperation and Technological Advancements
Agricultural cooperation has advanced as well, with the use of satellite and digital technologies to boost production. Ambassador Chen emphasized that China stands ready to work with Tanzania to deepen cooperation across all sectors, strengthen their all-weather friendship, and advance modernisation together.
Conclusion
The growing agricultural exports from Tanzania to China reflect a promising trend in bilateral trade and cooperation. As both nations continue to strengthen their economic ties, the potential for further growth and mutual benefit remains substantial. With continued investment and collaboration, Tanzania can leverage its agricultural resources to meet the demands of the Chinese market and beyond.
