Africa-Press – Tanzania. PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has urged government regulatory institutions to prioritize protecting local industries and businesses instead of becoming obstacles to their success.
Speaking when inaugurating the Lodhia roofing sheets factory in Mkuranga, Coast Region, the Prime Minister said that it will not be easy to protect domestic industries and businesses if Tanzania becomes a dumping ground for foreign products.
Emphasizing the matter, he instructed the Ministry of Finance not to grant tax exemptions or relief on imported goods that are already produced locally.
According to the Premier, tax relief should only be granted for imported goods where domestic production is insufficient.
Additionally, he directed the Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Tanzania Revenue Authority and security agencies, to ensure no smuggled goods enter the country.
“All institutions and security organs must supervise imports so they follow proper procedures. Failure to do so will kill local investment,” he said.
Moreover, the PM noted that the private sector is a major stakeholder in development and a key engine for implementing projects, which is why the government continues to create a conducive environment for industrial investment and business activities.
More than two million graduates enter the job market every year at various levels. We must grow the private sector, which has the capacity to create large numbers of jobs for Tanzanian youth. This means we must protect and attract investment,” he said.
Dr Nchemba also instructed the Ministry of Energy to accelerate infrastructure development to expand gas usage in industrial production.
Meanwhile, Minister for Industry and Trade Judith Kapinga said the government will continue taking deliberate measures to protect local industries and create a favorable environment for more to emerge.
