Tanzania is promoting border trade with its Eastern African Community neighbors by empowering local councils to create trade-friendly environments, according to the local media.
Deputy Minister Dennis Londo, during a visit to the Horohoro/Lungalunga One-Stop Border Post (OSBP), emphasized this goal, urging councils to help traders add value to products for unrestricted EAC sales, noting significant opportunities.
While OSBPs offer potential for enhancing trade via centralized services and reduced costs, their effectiveness is hampered by infrastructure issues, bureaucracy, and limited trader awareness, the local media reported. Despite Tanzania's key role in regional integration, many small-scale traders struggle due to limited knowledge and access to capital.
Recognizing these challenges, the government has pledged to address infrastructure and operational issues at border points. Londo reaffirmed the commitment to streamlining OSBPs, addressing concerns, and underlining border trade’s vital role. He also met with officials to strategize on enhancing cross-border trade.
The Horohoro OSBP is part of a broader effort to facilitate trade with integrated border services. When properly supported, these centers are expected to significantly boost economies, create jobs, and foster regional integration.