THE government has directed local industries to sustain and expand industrial white sugar production following the successful commencement of output at the Mkulazi Sugar Factory.

The Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, Kitila Mkumbo, and the Minister for Agriculture, Daniel Chongolo, issued the directive during their visit to the factory in Morogoro Region, where they received and reviewed a production progress report from the management.

The ministers praised the investment and operational management of the factory, stressing that increasing industrial white sugar production is essential for reducing the country’s total reliance on imports. Currently, Tanzania imports 100 percent of its industrial sugar, amounting to approximately 300,000 tonnes annually.

Prof. Mkumbo said the heavy import bill results in significant foreign exchange outflows, underscoring the importance of local production.

“The start of industrial white sugar production at Mkulazi marks a major milestone in cutting import dependency. The Government aims to achieve 100 percent self-sufficiency in sugar production between 2026/2027 and 2027/2028, and eventually produce surplus for export,” he said.

He further noted that Africa’s sugar market demand exceeds 12 million tonnes, offering Tanzania a substantial opportunity to expand its production capacity and benefit economically.

Minister Chongolo described the factory’s move as a vital boost to both the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. He called upon investors, including institutions such as the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), to continue investing in sugar production projects to capitalize on the growing domestic and international markets.

Morogoro Regional Commissioner, Adam Malima, said the Mkulazi project is one of the key drivers of economic growth in the region and nationwide. He commended the factory’s leadership for implementing strategic plans that are helping to ease sugar shortages in the country.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of Mkulazi Sugar Factory, Selestine Some, stated that the factory is currently the only producer of industrial white sugar in Tanzania, in line with directives issued by President Samia Suluhu Hassan during its launch.

He explained that after successful production trials this season, the factory plans to scale up output next season to significantly reduce industrial sugar imports.

Some added that the factory is creating opportunities for out-growers to supply sugarcane as raw material. This year, farmers are expected to cultivate 1,717 hectares, with 1,384 hectares already planted. He expressed confidence that the cultivation target will be fully achieved next season.

He also highlighted the high quality of sugar produced, noting its growing popularity among consumers, and emphasized that the factory has trained local professionals to efficiently manage industrial white sugar production.

With these developments, Mkulazi is emerging as a cornerstone in Tanzania’s strategy to achieve sugar self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on imported products.