The Tanzanian High Commission in the UK has set a target to raise exports to £1 billion (US$1.26 billion) by 2030, with a focus on horticultural and agricultural products entering the British market.
Tanzania's High Commissioner to the UK, Mbelwa Kairuki, said the goal requires coordinated efforts and stakeholder engagement across both countries. He emphasized that accurate and policy-relevant information is essential for Tanzanian exporters aiming to penetrate and compete in the UK.
"To facilitate this process, the High Commission has prepared a briefing document that provides critical insights into market expectations, regulatory and compliance requirements, and strategies for building credibility with buyers," he said.
The briefing contains a checklist to guide exporters in aligning operations with UK standards and directs them to platforms and institutions that provide compliance resources and business linkages.
According to Kairuki, the UK imports a wide range of fruits and vegetables year-round, creating opportunities for Tanzanian producers able to ensure quality and consistency. Exporters should focus on steady supply volumes, competitive pricing, seasonal timing to fill gaps, and packaging that withstands transit while appealing to buyers.
Crops with strong potential include okra, purple passion fruit, ginger, Hass avocados, bitter melon, and oriental vegetables such as Chinese and Thai eggplants, particularly during the UK winter. There is also a steady demand for sweet potatoes and plantains.
However, some commodities remain challenging. Pineapples and jackfruit are dominated by Latin American producers benefiting from cheaper sea freight, while Europe supplies much of its own tomato and red cabbage demand through road freight.
Kairuki also highlighted opportunities in the UK's fresh herbs segment, driven by restaurants, food service suppliers, and health-conscious consumers. "Tanzania is well-positioned to supply chives, basil, and other specialty herbs, provided exporters can maintain freshness through reliable cold chain logistics and strong packaging," he said.
Herbs are mainly transported by air freight, which aligns with Tanzania's proximity to the UK and seasonal windows. While volumes are smaller compared to avocados, herbs offer higher margins and can help smallholder farmers and niche agribusinesses enter the UK market.
Kairuki stressed that credibility with buyers, consistent quality, and compliance with UK regulations will be central to achieving Tanzania's export target by 2030.
Source: Daily News
