MINISTER for Industry and Trade, Dr Seleman Jafo has directed the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and the Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organisation (TIRDO) to expedite the provision of quality logos and barcodes for local traders.

This, according to the Minister, will enable more Tanzanian products to penetrate international markets, including the East African Community (EAC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He made the directives over the weekend in the Lindi region during the launch of a trade fair focusing on tailoring and business opportunities.

In his address, Minister Jafo pledged his Ministry’s support in creating a favourable environment to attract both local and foreign investment for industrial development in the region.

He highlighted the availability of raw materials in Lindi that could draw investment and noted that the government is implementing its Industrial Program for 2025-2030, aimed at boosting employment and overall economic growth.

Meanwhile, Minister Jafo inaugurated the Online Market (e-Market) in Lindi and instructed the Regional Commissioner to ensure the market operates monthly, in collaboration with the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (Tantrade).

He encouraged efforts to publicise the market to attract traders and facilitate the buying and selling of various products.

He also urged Tanzanians to prioritise locally made goods to support their fellow citizens.

Lindi Regional Commissioner Zainab Telack appealed to the Ministry for assistance in establishing factories to process local crops, such as sesame oil, which is abundant in the region, as well as facilities for seaweed product processing.

Abdallah Hamis Livembe, a traditional elder, echoed the call for prioritising Lindi in the establishment of industries to enhance employment opportunities and boost the region’s economy, which he noted lags behind others.