What You Need to Know
Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has highlighted the significance of the horticulture industry as a key component of Tanzania’s international trade. With production increasing significantly, the government is investing in infrastructure and quality assurance to enhance competitiveness in global markets. The upcoming Hortilogistica Africa 2026 forum aims to further promote horticultural trade and
Africa-Press – Tanzania. PRIME Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has said the horticulture industry is not merely a sub-sector of agriculture, but a strategic pillar of international trade that connects Tanzania to global markets.
Recognising its importance, he noted that the government has continued to provide input subsidies, significantly boosting productivity and output. As a result, horticultural production increased from 7.5 million tonnes in 2023/2024 to 9.7 million tonnes in 2024/2025, marking a rise of 30.2 per cent.
Speaking yesterday while officiating the launch of preparations for the International Horticulture Trade and Investment Forum, dubbed Hortilogistica Africa 2026, the Premier called on stakeholders to collaborate in advancing the sector.
The event, aimed at promoting horticultural trade, was held at the Dr John Samwel Malecela Agricultural Forum grounds in Nzuguni, Dodoma. The forum itself is scheduled to take place in Arusha from November 8 to 10 this year.
“It is evident that if all stakeholders work together to develop this industry, its contribution will continue to grow significantly both nationally and globally,” he said.
Dr Nchemba said that in efforts to position Tanzania as a hub for horticultural trade in Africa and a gateway to international markets, the government has expanded access to global markets. Exports of avocados, vegetables, flowers and spices have increased rapidly, particularly to Europe and the Middle East.
He added that the government has also strengthened value addition industries, improved quality assurance and standards systems and upgraded transport infrastructure. A dedicated cargo aircraft is now providing services across various regions to facilitate the movement of produce.
“The government has also invested in cold chain systems at Kilimanjaro International Airport and Mwanza Airport, where facilities for preserving perishable goods, including horticultural produce, are now available,” Dr Nchemba said. The Premier urged farmers to adhere to internationally accepted quality standards to enhance the competitiveness of Tanzanian products in regional and global markets.
“Trade is about quality, a quality product will always find a market,” he said.
He further emphasised that Tanzania remains a safe, opportunity-rich and fastgrowing destination for agricultural investment, urging the private sector to invest with confidence, backed by full government support. During the event, Dr Nchemba also led a fundraising drive aimed at raising 2bn/- in its first phase.
The target was surpassed, with a total of 2.59bn/- collected. Overall, the initiative aims to raise 6bn/- by November. Minister for Agriculture, Daniel Chongolo said the inaugural horticulture trade and investment forum, being held for the first time in Africa and hosted by Tanzania comes at an opportune time, as President Samia Suluhu Hassan works to position the country as a leading producer and exporter of agricultural products regionally and globally.
He said the forum will bring together producers from across Africa, international buyers and service providers, adding that Tanzania is proud to use the platform to advance its vision of ensuring food security while actively participating in global agricultural trade.
Tanzania’s horticulture sector has been growing steadily, becoming a vital part of the economy and contributing to food security. The government has recognized the potential of this industry, implementing policies to support farmers and improve export capabilities. Investments in infrastructure, such as cold chain systems and transport, have been crucial for enhancing the quality and reach of Tanzanian horticultural products in international markets. The upcoming forum aims to solidify Tanzania’s position as a key player in the global horticultural trade.
