Tanzania has officially lifted its ban on agricultural imports from South Africa and Malawi, reversing a retaliatory measure that had escalated trade tensions in the region.
The ban, originally imposed in response to similar restrictions by the two Southern African nations on Tanzanian agricultural exports, had disrupted the movement of goods such as rice, flour, bananas, maize, and ginger, key staples for cross-border traders.
Joseph Ndunguru, Director-General of the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority, announced the decision, attributing the move to the need for diplomatic ministerial engagement.
The announcement marks a step toward easing strained trade relations among members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
In reaction to the development, South Africa’s Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, welcomed Tanzania’s decision, highlighting the value of diplomacy in resolving regional challenges.
“This outcome demonstrates that the diplomatic route remains the most effective path to resolving challenges.
Cooperation and mutual understanding can unlock shared opportunities,” he stated.
The diplomatic breakthrough follows weeks of tensions triggered by South Africa and Malawi’s trade barriers targeting Tanzanian produce.
In response, Tanzania had slapped a ban on all agricultural imports from both countries, including fresh apples from South Africa.
The trade impasse had significantly impacted exporters and local businesses dependent on agricultural trade within the SADC region.
Tanzanian Minister for Agriculture, Hussein Bashe, previously defended the ban as a necessary measure to protect the country’s economic interests.
“We cannot continue to tolerate this unfair treatment,” he said.
“While negotiations are ongoing, we must act in defense of our economic interests.”
Recent discussions between the three countries have now led to a mutual agreement to restore trade and address the underlying imbalances.
The timing of the announcement coincides with Tanzania’s 61st anniversary of unification, celebrated on April 26.
Lamola acknowledged the symbolic importance of the moment, calling Tanzania’s national journey “a beacon of pan-Africanism” and a lasting inspiration to the continent.
