The Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) hosted a high-level workshop to tackle the critical issue of illicit and harmful alcohol consumption. The workshop brought together key industry stakeholders, policymakers, and regulatory authorities such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Fair Competition Commission (FCC), Tanzania Bureau of Standards, TNBS and other key players in the alcohol industry.

CTI underscored the severe health risks associated with unregulated alcohol, including high toxicity levels, long-term complications such as liver disease and blindness, and even fatalities. Additionally, illicit alcohol contributes to social issues like crime, domestic violence, and decreased workplace productivity, further straining healthcare and social welfare systems. 

The former CTI Chairperson, Paul Makanza stated, “The fight against illicit alcohol is not just about regulation—it is about protecting Tanzanian lives, securing government revenue, and fostering a fair business environment. Illicit alcohol endangers public health, fuels social problems, and undermines the formal industry, which provides thousands of jobs and drives economic growth. We need to intensify enforcement and strengthen policies as we continue raising awareness to ensure a responsible and sustainable alcohol industry that contributes positively to Tanzania’s development.” 

Adding onto the former Chairman’s remarks, the SBL Managing Director, Obinna Anyalebechi also said, ‘‘We, as alcohol manufacturers, are willing partners in this mission. It is our belief that true success in this industry is not measured only by financial performance, but by our ability to contribute to the sustainable development of our society. Alcohol misuse is detrimental to everyone—industry, public health, and society—and tackling this challenge requires collaboration over confrontation’’. 

Beyond public health, CTI expressed concern over the economic repercussions of illicit alcohol. A study reported by Ernest and Young in November 2018 estimated that the Tanzanian government loses approximately 1.2 trillion Tanzanian shillings annually due to illicit alcohol trade. Unregulated sales undermine legitimate businesses and cause significant tax revenue losses, weakening the government’s ability to fund essential services like healthcare and education. Moreover, the formal alcohol industry—which provides thousands of jobs—faces unfair competition from unlicensed operators who evade safety regulations and quality standards. 

To safeguard public health and economic stability, CTI called for stricter regulation of the alcohol industry, emphasizing the need to enhance investor confidence, promote responsible alcohol consumption, and protect citizens from harmful substances. 

CTI and its partners urge the government and stakeholders to intensify efforts against illicit alcohol through stronger enforcement, increased public awareness, and improved policy implementation. Collaboration between industry leaders, regulatory authorities, and law enforcement is essential to ensuring a safe and responsible alcohol industry that supports Tanzania’s socio-economic progress.