Africa-Press – Tanzania. TANGA port has achieved another significant milestone in its rapid ascent as a competitive gateway on the Indian Ocean, with the arrival of the firstever consignment of tarmac cargo from Iran.
The shipment underscores the port’s growing appeal to international shippers and points to increasing Iranian maritime traffic to Tanzania.
The latest consignment follows the arrival of an Iranian vessel at Tanga Port just weeks ago, an event that port officials described as “the beginning of a new chapter” in direct maritime relations between Iran and northern Tanzania.
The new cargo of tarmac, destined for Malawi, strengthens this emerging link further.
According to the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), operational efficiency at Tanga Port has improved significantly, with the average time taken to handle a vessel dropping from seven days to just three. This leap in performance has enhanced the port’s capacity, visibility and competitiveness, attracting customers from new markets, including Iran.
Acting Tanga Port Manager, Mr Peter Milanzi, said the reforms initiated under President Samia Suluhu Hassan have transformed Tanga into one of the region’s most reliable ports.
“We continue to excel due to the significant improvements implemented by the government. Today, we are receiving a new category of cargo tarmac from Iran delivered by Amura Shipping Agency. Their confidence in Tanga Port reflects our efficiency,” Mr Milanzi said during the offloading of six containers of Iranian tarmac.
Each container carried 110 drums, bringing the total to 660 drums, weighing 125.43 tonnes.
Mr Milanzi added that growing trust from international clients has led to a surge in cargo volumes, including vehicles and mixed consignments headed to different countries.
“Tanga Port is safe, efficient and fast. We welcome all customers especially those facing delays at other ports to bring their cargo here. They will be handled professionally and without unnecessary waiting time,” he said.
For the 2025/2026 financial year, TPA projected that Tanga Port would handle 1.6 million tonnes of cargo. However, since July, the port has exceeded its monthly targets starting with 152,000 tonnes, rising to 157,000 tonnes and reaching 200,000 tonnes in both September and October.
“We are confident we will meet and surpass our annual target. The numbers are rising because customers are responding positively to our improved service delivery,” Mr Milanzi noted.
Mr Zakaria Mohamed Nanimuka from Amura Shipping Agency expressed satisfaction with the handling of the Iranian cargo and announced that the company plans to bring an additional 20 containers through Tanga Port.
“We are impressed by Tanga Port’s efficiency there were no delays, no complaints and no challenges. The investment made here by the Government is paying off. As shippers, we will continue using this port for various consignments,” he said.
Mr Nanimuka confirmed that the tarmac shipment originated from Iran and praised port officials for seamless clearance, timely scanning and smooth offloading processes.
“We thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan for the improvements that have enabled such excellent port operations,” he added.
The arrival of the tarmac consignment not only highlights Tanga Port’s rising operational standards but also strengthens the emerging shipping corridor between Iran and Tanzania, a development that could open new trade possibilities for East Africa.
