The Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) has made a significant move to broaden its global reach in a bid to attract international industrial investors.

This expansion follows productive discussions between the EPZA Director General, Charles Itembe, with representatives from leading Chinese companies, including Huaqu International Investment Co. Ltd. and the Global International Promotion Committee. 

Itembe, who led a special EPZA investment promotion team for Special Economic Zones, stated that the agreements reached included plans to enhance cooperation through the exchange of information on investment opportunities and the sharing of expertise to boost Tanzania's industrial sector.

“These efforts align with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s broader economic diplomacy strategy, which seeks to ensure Tanzanian products establish a strong presence in global markets,” Itembe stated while briefing on the success achieved during a recent trip to China.

As part of the agreement, EPZA will establish a special office in Shanghai to promote investment opportunities and serve as a liaison between EPZA and Shanghai-based companies interested in investing in Tanzania.

In these discussions, EPZA is focusing on attracting Chinese investors in sectors such as textiles, construction, agricultural processing, leather, timber, coffee, tobacco, and electrical products.

“China, a country that has made significant strides in the industrial and manufacturing sectors, presents a valuable opportunity for Tanzania,” he said.

With substantial funds allocated by China for international investments, this presents a timely opportunity for Tanzania to leverage these resources, driving the nation’s economic growth.

During the visit, potential investors expressed interest in establishing industries in Tanzania, including textile, construction materials, food processing, and packaging factories.

EPZA remains committed to attracting more industries to Tanzania, in line with President Samia’s vision of a manufacturing-driven economy that taps into the African free trade market, where products made in Special Economic Zones (SEZs) can access broader markets.

This is a crucial moment for Tanzania to strengthen its manufacturing sector through the SEZ initiative and capitalize on international agreements.

This move is strategically significant as it aligns with Tanzania's broader economic growth plans. By attracting global investors, particularly from China—one of the world’s leading industrial powers, EPZA seeks to bolster the nation’s manufacturing sector.

This initiative will not only contribute to job creation but also pave the way for technological advancements and increased exports, further integrating Tanzania into the global economy.

The establishment of an EPZA office in Shanghai will facilitate smoother connections between Tanzanian businesses and potential Chinese investors, reinforcing Tanzania's position as an attractive investment destination.