Africa-Press – Tanzania. TARIME District has been identified as a key investment destination under government plans to expand cross border trade and strengthen nation’s position in the East African Community market.
Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Mr Dennis Londo, told the National Assembly yesterday that the strategy includes promoting fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to attract large-scale investors, particularly for projects under Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
In her basic question, Tarime Urban MP Ms Esther Matiko (CCM) wanted to know whether the government has plans to establish a strategic industry within Tarime Municipality.
Responding, Mr Londo said Tarime is among priority border districts due to its role in facilitating trade between Tanzania and Kenya.
He said incentives such as tax relief and regulatory support are aimed at encouraging investors to expand beyond coastal regions and set up industries in border areas with strong access to regional markets.
In her supplementary question, Ms Matiko asked whether the government would attract manufacturers of construction materials, including iron sheets, steel bars and plumbing supplies, to help reduce high costs faced by residents in Mara Region, who often depend on imports from neighbouring Kenya.
Responding, Mr Londo said the government is planning a comprehensive assessment to determine the types of strategic industries suitable for Tarime.
“The government has planned a comprehensive assessment to identify the types of strategic industries that should be established in Tarime,” he stressed.
He said that once the assessment is completed, the district will be promoted to potential investors to support industrial growth aligned with both local demand and regional trade opportunities.
Mr Londo added strengthening industrial development in border areas is part of a broader strategy to enhance Tanzania’s competitiveness within the EAC and expand access to regional markets.
