Tanzania Import Guide
Last reviewed: 2026-09-01
Market Overview
Tanzania is an East African market with growing food import demand, served principally through the Port of Dar es Salaam, which also supports regional transshipment.
Import Considerations
- Food imports are regulated by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TMDA) for food safety and registration.
- Product registration with TMDA is generally required before importing packaged food products.
- Labelling requirements cover ingredients, net weight, origin and date marking, generally in English or Swahili.
Product Categories
- Whole and ground spices
- Pulses and grains
- Processed food products
Documentation
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Certificate of Origin
- Health certificate / Certificate of Analysis as required
- TMDA product registration, where applicable
Regulatory Considerations
- TMDA product registration can take time to complete — factor this into planning for a first shipment to Tanzania.
Logistics
The Port of Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's principal gateway, also serving as a transshipment point for several landlocked neighbouring countries.
Ports
- Port of Dar es Salaam
Buyer Considerations
- Confirm TMDA registration status for the product before committing to a shipment timeline.
- Clarify labelling language and content requirements before production.
Common Mistakes
- Underestimating the lead time required for TMDA product registration ahead of a first shipment.
- Assuming Tanzania's requirements mirror those of other East African markets without confirming directly.
Official Sources
Requirements may vary. Verify the current requirement with the relevant authority before shipment.