CHINESE Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian has urged the Tanzanian business community to register for the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE), highlighting the potential for their products accessing the expansive market in the Far East.

Ambassador Chen made the appeal in Dar es Salaam recently during the seventh CIIE briefing session, which involved Chinese attaches and representatives from the Tanzanian business community.

She emphasized that participation in the expo, scheduled for November 5-10 in Shanghai, would strengthen trade ties between the two countries and provide Tanzanian companies with a unique platform to attract international buyers and investors.

“President Xi Jinping's announcement of zero tariffs on certain imported goods from Least Developed Countries, including Tanzania, presents a unique opportunity for the Tanzanian business community to tap into the vast Chinese market. I urge you to seize this chance to promote trade balance, boost exports and support economic growth,” she said.

The envoy noted the significance of the event for Tanzanian traders aiming to showcase food products, traditional handicrafts and clothing.

“Tanzanian artisans and producers can highlight their cultural heritage and culinary diversity, fostering greater economic collaboration between Tanzania and China,” she added.

Ambassador Chen also announced that Zanzibar President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi is expected to participate in the CIIE, underscoring the event's importance to Tanzania's trade agenda.

President Mwinyi's involvement is anticipated to elevate the country's presence at the expo and facilitate high-level discussions on trade and investment opportunities beneficial to both nations.

Omar Said Shaaban, Zanzibar's Minister for Trade and Industrial Development, emphasized the role of such exhibitions in promoting Tanzanian products, reaffirming President Mwinyi's commitment to policies that enhance access to global markets.

“Exhibitions like the China International Import Expo are crucial for showcasing Tanzanian products to the world. We remain steadfast in our commitment to implementing policies that support our local businesses on the international stage,” he said.

Director General of Tan Trade Latifa Khamis expressed gratitude for China’s provision of a pavilion at the CIIE, viewing it as an opportunity to enhance visibility in the Chinese market and create meaningful connections between Tanzanian exporters and potential buyers.

Maggie Lin, special assistant for the chairman of the East African Commercial Logistics Centre (EACLC) said the Tanzanian pavilion, spanning an impressive 252 square meters, is set to be a vibrant showcase of the nation's rich cultural heritage and diverse products with architectural design like the Zanzibar ‘Arch Door’ that serve as a powerful metaphor for welcoming international investors and buyers, inviting them to explore the vast opportunities within Tanzania.

She added: “The TAZARA Railway, a historic project linking Tanzania and Zambia, will be highlighted as a testament to the enduring partnership between China and Tanzania. It has played a crucial role in facilitating trade and transportation in the region.”

President Xi, introduced CIIE with the vision of promoting open trade, enhancing international cooperation, and creating a shared future for economic development. By providing participating nations with the opportunity to engage with the vast Chinese market, the expo serves as a crucial bridge for fostering relationships between countries and their industries.