Committee to investigate foreign traders at Kariakoo Market
What you need to know:
- The investigation is part of ongoing efforts by the government to regulate business activities and ensure compliance with Tanzania’s investment and trade laws.
Dar es Salaam. The Minister of Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, has appointed a 15-member special committee to investigate the presence of foreign traders engaging in informal retail businesses, commonly known as “Umachinga” at Kariakoo Market and other areas in Tanzania.
The decision follows President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s response to complaints from local traders, particularly those in Kariakoo, regarding the increasing number of foreigners operating in the informal retail sector.
Dr Jafo announced the committee’s formation yesterday in Dar es Salaam during a meeting with Kariakoo traders, including the Chairman of the Tanzania Business Community, Hamis Livembe, and other key market leaders.
“Recently, President Samia Suluhu Hassan received complaints from traders about the growing presence of foreigners in the retail business.
While many arrive with investment agendas, their activities often do not align with true investment purposes,” Dr Jafo said.
He explained that instead of focusing on large-scale investment projects, some foreigners engage in informal retail trade, which negatively affects local businesses.
“This issue has become a major challenge for Tanzanian traders, threatening their businesses and capital.
Our laws and regulations clearly define how business should be conducted, including specific guidelines for foreign traders,” he added.
Dr Jafo noted that some foreigners operate outside the legal framework, creating unfair competition.
Some have even established warehouses and sell goods at retail prices, further disadvantaging Tanzanian traders.
The committee, chaired by Rector of the College of Business Education (CBE), Prof Edda Lwoga, will submit its findings within 30 days. Members include key government and private sector representatives, including the Director of Business Development at the ministry, Sempeho Manongi, and officials from law enforcement and trade agencies.
Dr Jafo urged traders to remain patient while the investigation is conducted, assuring them that the findings will not only address concerns in the business sector but also strengthen regulatory enforcement across other industries.
Kariakoo Market Chairman Hamis Livembe expressed optimism that the committee’s work will help resolve the issue and ensure fair business competition.
The investigation is part of ongoing efforts by the government to regulate business activities and ensure compliance with Tanzania’s investment and trade laws.
