Tanzania is sending 36 enterprises and government institutions to the ninth China International Import Expo (CIIE), scheduled to take place in Shanghai from November 5 to 10, 2026, as the country seeks to expand exports and strengthen access to the Chinese market.
The delegation was introduced at a farewell ceremony organized by the Chinese Embassy in Dar es Salaam on October 31. Participating exhibitors showcased a range of Tanzanian products, including coffee, tea, honey and handicrafts.
Dennis Londo, Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, said the expo provides local businesses with an important platform to showcase their products, establish commercial partnerships and attract investment from China and other international markets. He encouraged exhibitors to engage with potential buyers and explore opportunities to increase exports of agricultural and value-added products.
According to Jonathan Nkwabi, director of trade promotion at the Tanzania Trade Development Authority, the delegation includes enterprises from both the public and private sectors, reflecting the country’s coordinated efforts to promote its products internationally.
Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania Chen Mingjian highlighted the opportunities created by China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries maintaining diplomatic relations with China. She noted that China’s imports from Tanzania reached 290 million U.S. dollars in the first half of 2026, an increase of 12 percent year on year.
The first shipment of Tanzanian honey has also entered the Chinese market through a dedicated green channel for African agricultural products. So far, 15 categories of Tanzanian agricultural products have gained access to the Chinese market, and 469 Tanzanian enterprises have registered to export agricultural and food products to China.
Cathy Wang, managing director of the East Africa Commercial and Logistics Center, said Tanzania’s participation in the CIIE has grown significantly, from six enterprises in 2021 to 36 enterprises and institutions this year.
To help local businesses benefit from the opportunity, her organization is working with the Tanzania Trade Development Authority to assist exhibitors in meeting Chinese import standards and navigating export procedures, customs clearance and logistics.
Tanzania’s expanding participation highlights the growing trade opportunities between China and African countries. Through international exhibitions, improved market access and trade facilitation, more African agricultural and specialty products are gaining opportunities to reach Chinese consumers.
