Connecting Tanzania across Africa and beyond
We have been connecting Tanzanian businesses across Africa and beyond for many years.
Limark has been a reliable partner for Tanzanian businesses, facilitating growth through end-to-end logistics solutions. Whether you’re shipping agricultural products, minerals, or manufactured goods, we offer expert services to ensure your shipments reach their destinations without any hassle.
Our extensive network covers key ports such as Dar es Salaam and strategic inland hubs. Combined with our expertise in navigating Tanzania’s trade landscape, this opens up opportunities to access regional and global markets, enabling your business to thrive in the heart of East Africa.
Import regulations
Importing goods to Tanzania requires navigating specific procedures and documentation. Here’s a breakdown of the essential requirements:
Product Categories Requiring Import Licenses/Permits
Food and Agricultural Products
- Imports of meat, dairy products, fish, grains, fruits, vegetables, and other food items require import permits from the Ministry of Agriculture.
- Phytosanitary certificates are required for plants and plant products to ensure they are free from pests and diseases.
- Import permits are necessary for specific products like sugar, wheat, and rice to regulate supply and stabilize prices.
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
- Importation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices is regulated by the Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA).
- Import permits and product registration are mandatory.
- Medicines must comply with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Medical devices must meet relevant technical standards and be registered with the TFDA.
Chemicals and Hazardous Materials
- The Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA) and the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) regulate the import of chemicals and hazardous materials.
- Import permits and compliance with safety data sheets (SDS) are mandatory.
- Strict adherence to packaging, labeling, and transportation regulations is essential.
Vehicles and Spare Parts
- The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) regulates the import of vehicles and spare parts.
- Import permits are required for vehicles.
- Age and emission standards apply to used vehicles.
- Conformity Assessment and Verification of Conformity (PVoC) is mandatory for new and used vehicles.
Other Regulated Products
Additional import licenses or permits may be required for specific products like telecommunications equipment, explosives, firearms, and cultural artifacts.
Prohibited and Restricted Imports
Prohibited
- Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
- Pornographic and obscene materials
- Counterfeit and pirated goods
- Hazardous waste (Basel Convention)
- Ozone-depleting substances (Montreal Protocol)
- Used tires (except for re-treading)
- Right-hand drive vehicles (except for special purposes)
- Restricted (require special permits):
- Live animals and animal products
- Plants and plant products
- Firearms and ammunition
- Explosives
- Radioactive materials
- Used clothing
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Endangered species and products (CITES permits required)
Relevant agencies
- Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) – Customs and Excise Department
- Ministry of Agriculture
- Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA)
- Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA)
- Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)
- Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment
- Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development
- Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism
- Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA)
- Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA)
Free Time
- Typically, 14 days for general cargo and 21 days for containerized cargo after discharge.
- May vary depending on the shipping line and port.
Demurrage charges
- Applied when the free time is exceeded.
- Calculated per container, per day.
- Rates vary depending on the shipping line, container size, and time elapsed.
Detention charges
- Applied when the container is held beyond the agreed-upon time for return to the shipping line after being picked up from the port.
- Separate from demurrage charges.
- Rates vary depending on the shipping line and container size.
Storage Limitations
- Port terminals have limited storage capacity.
- Containers not cleared within the allowed time may be moved to an off-dock depot at the importer’s expense.
Calculation Methods
Demurrage and detention charges are calculated based on calendar days, including weekends and public holidays.
Commercial Invoice
- Detailed description of goods (including HS codes)
- Quantity, weight, and unit price of goods
- Total invoice value (in USD or TZS)
- Incoterms (International Commercial Terms)
- Payment terms
- Consignee and consignor details
Packing List
- Detailed list of all items in each package
- Description, quantity, weight, and dimensions of each item
- Package markings and numbers
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- Evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier
- Details of the shipment, including the consignee, consignor, and port of loading/discharge
Certificate of Origin
- Declares the origin of the goods
- May be required for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements (e.g., EAC, SADC)
Import Declaration Form (IDF)
- Submitted through the Tanzania Electronic Single Window System (TANCIS)
- Requires detailed information about the shipment and importer
Import Permit/License (for regulated goods): Issued by the relevant government agency
Other Certificates
- Phytosanitary certificate (for plants and plant products)
- Health certificate (for animals and animal products)
- Certificate of analysis (for chemicals and food products)
- CITES permit (for endangered species)
Import Licenses and Permits
- Identify the Regulating Agency: Determine the specific ministry or agency responsible for your goods based on the product category.
- Gather Required Documents:
- Proforma invoice or commercial contract
- Technical specifications and data sheets (if applicable)
- Certificates of origin, analysis, quality, etc.
- Business registration documents (for companies)
- Taxpayer identification number (TIN)
- Submit Application:
- Complete the import permit application form (available online or at the agency’s office).
- Submit the application along with the required documents and fees to the relevant agency.
- Processing and Approval:
- The application will be reviewed and processed by the agency.
- Processing times vary but can take several days or weeks.
- If approved, the import permit will be issued.
- Validity and Renewal:
- Validity periods vary depending on the product and agency.
- Renewal procedures involve submitting a new application with updated documents before the expiry date.
- Costs:
- Import permit fees vary depending on the product and agency.
- Additional costs may include inspection fees and testing fees.
Customs Clearance Procedures
- Pre-Arrival Processing:
- Importer or their agent lodges the import declaration (IDF) through TANCIS.
- Customs performs a risk assessment to determine the need for inspection.
- Arrival and Unloading:
- Vessel or aircraft arrives at the port or airport.
- Cargo is unloaded and placed in customs control.
- Document Verification and Duty Assessment:
- Customs verifies the submitted documents.
- Import duties, taxes, and fees are calculated based on the HS code, value, and origin of the goods.
- Payment of Duties and Taxes: The importer or their agent pays the assessed amount through the designated bank.
- Inspection (if required): Customs may select shipments for physical inspection based on risk assessment.
- Release of Goods: If the shipment complies with all regulations and requirements, and duties/taxes are paid, customs releases the goods.
Port/Terminal operations
Major Seaports
- Port of Dar es Salaam: The largest and busiest port, handling containerized, bulk, and liquid cargo.
- Port of Tanga: A smaller port handling mainly general cargo.
- Port of Mtwara: A growing port focused on natural gas exports and general cargo.
Air Cargo Hubs
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR): The main airport for air cargo imports.
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Another significant airport for air cargo imports.
Cut-off Dates
- Vary depending on the shipping line and destination.
- Confirm with your shipping agent or freight forwarder well in advance.
Documentation Requirements at Terminals
- Ensure all required documents are submitted electronically through TANCIS before the shipment arrives.
- Original documents may be required for verification at the terminal.
Container Pickup/Drop-off and Storage
- Coordinate with your shipping agent or freight forwarder for container pickup and drop-off procedures.
- Be aware of free time limitations and potential demurrage/detention charges.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data and may be subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Export regulations
Get a detailed guide that provides an in-depth look into every aspect of the export process to ensure your goods are shipped efficiently and in compliance with all legal standards.
Product Categories Requiring Export Licenses/Permits
Minerals
Tanzania is a significant exporter of gold, diamond, tanzanite, and copper minerals. Exporting these minerals requires a license from the Ministry of Minerals.
Exporters must comply with specific requirements for mineral traceability, declaration of origin, and environmental impact assessments.
The Mining Act and the Mining Regulations provide the legal framework for mineral exports
Agricultural Products
Cashew Nuts: Tanzania is one of the leading exporters of cashew nuts. Exporting cashew nuts requires registration with the Cashew Nut Board of Tanzania (CBT) and adherence to quality standards.
Coffee and Tea: Export licenses are required from the Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) for coffee and the Tanzania Tea Board (TTB) for tea. Exporters must meet quality standards and comply with export regulations.
Tobacco: Export permits are required from the Tobacco Board of Tanzania (TBT) to regulate and monitor the export of tobacco products.
Other Agricultural Products: Other agricultural products, such as cotton, sisal, and cloves, may also require export licenses or permits depending on the specific regulations.
Wildlife and Wildlife Products
- The export of wildlife and wildlife products, including live animals, trophies, and animal products, is strictly regulated by the Tanzania Wildlife Management Authority (TAWA).
- CITES permits are required for endangered species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
- Strict adherence to wildlife conservation regulations is essential.
Timber and Wood Products
- The export of timber and wood products is regulated by the Tanzania Forest Service (TFS) to promote sustainable forest management.
- Export permits are required, and exporters must comply with legal harvesting and processing requirements.
Prohibited or Restricted for Export
Prohibited
- Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
- Pornographic and obscene materials
- Counterfeit and pirated goods
- Hazardous waste (Basel Convention)
- Ozone-depleting substances (Montreal Protocol)
- Weapons and ammunition (unless authorized)
Restricted
- Live animals and animal products (require health certificates)
- Plants and plant products (require phytosanitary certificates)
- Rough diamonds (Kimberley Process Certification Scheme applies)
- Unprocessed minerals (to promote local value addition)
- Antiques and cultural artifacts (require export permits from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism)
Required Documents
Commercial Invoice: Detailed description of goods (including HS codes), quantity, weight, value (in USD or TZS), Incoterms, payment terms, and complete details of the consignee and consignor.
Packing List: Itemized list of goods in each package, including description, quantity, weight, dimensions, and package markings.
Bill of Lading/Airway Bill: Evidence of the contract of carriage between the shipper and carrier, with details of the shipment, consignee, consignor, and port of loading/discharge.
Certificate of Origin: Issued by the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA), declaring the origin of the goods. It may be required for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements (e.g., EAC, SADC).
Export Permit (if applicable): Issued by the relevant government agency.
Export Declaration Process (through TANCIS)
- Register as an exporter of the Tanzania Electronic Single Window System (TANCIS).
- Prepare and submit the Electronic Cargo Tracking Note (ECTN) through TANCIS.
- Customs verifies the declaration and supporting documents.
- If compliant, customs approves the export and issues an export permit (if required).
Required Export Certificates
- Phytosanitary Certificate (for plants and plant products): Issued by the Plant Health Inspectorate Service (PHIS) under the Ministry of Agriculture.
- Health Certificate (for live animals and animal products): Issued by the Veterinary Services Department under the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development.
- Certificate of Analysis: This may be required for specific products like minerals to verify their quality and composition.
- CITES Permit (for endangered species): Issued by TAWA.
- Kimberley Process Certificate (for rough diamonds): Issued by the Ministry of Minerals.
Major Seaports
- Port of Dar es Salaam: The largest and busiest port in Tanzania, handling containerized, bulk, and liquid cargo.
- Port of Tanga: A smaller port handling mainly general cargo and serving as an alternative to Dar es Salaam.
- Port of Mtwara: A growing port focused on natural gas exports and general cargo.
Cut-off Times and Procedures
- Vary depending on the shipping line, destination, and type of cargo.
- Confirm with your shipping agent or freight forwarder well in advance.
- Procedures typically include document submission through TANCIS, customs clearance, security screening, and container loading.
Container Storage and Free Time
- All major ports offer container storage facilities.
- Free time for storage varies depending on the port and shipping line, typically ranging from 5 to 14 days.
- Storage fees apply after the free time expires.
Returning Empty Containers
- Coordinate with your shipping line or agent to return empty containers to the designated depot.
- Failure to return containers on time may result in detention charges.
Duties, Taxes, and Fees
- Export Duties: Generally, Tanzania does not impose export duties on most goods. However, certain products may be subject to specific export taxes or levies, such as royalties on minerals.
- Other Fees: Customs processing fees, document handling charges, terminal handling charges, storage fees (if applicable), and any specific taxes or levies related to the exported product.
Disclaimer: This information is based on the latest available data and is subject to change. Always consult with relevant authorities and experts for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Expertise You Can Trust
Seamless cross-border shipping to and from Tanzania
Tanzania’s trade regulations can be complex, but with Limark, you have an experienced guide. We understand the intricacies of Tanzanian customs and compliance, ensuring your shipments move seamlessly and efficiently through the system. Don’t let regulatory complexities hold your business back – let Limark be your trusted partner in Tanzania.
Our expanding presence in Tanzania demonstrates our commitment to excellence. Our team of skilled local supply chain experts, combined with our robust infrastructure and technology, ensures that your shipments are handled with utmost care and efficiency. Partner with us today and experience the confidence that comes with a reliable supply chain expert in the region.
Get Expert Guidance
Contact our regional experts
Partner with experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers for seamless shipping to and from Tanzania. Ensure full documentation compliance with the guidance and logistics services of our team.
Sales enquiries
We’re happy to talk to you about your shipment needs anytime. Please get in touch with us.
Ready to ship?
Get your shipment moving faster. Request a quote today for our end-to-end supply chain services.
