Import ban looms for electronics in Tanzania

Arusha. The Tanzanian government is set to introduce a ban on the importation of electronic devices as soon as the country establishes sufficient local assembling capacity.

Although the exact timeframe remains undisclosed, the Director-General of the ICT Commission, Dr Nkundwe Mwasaga, stated on Sunday that the ban would be implemented once the nation attracts enough investors to meet domestic demand for electronic products.

The ban is expected to cover smartphones, laptops, computers and other Information and Communication Technology (ICT) devices. The move aims to support the growth of local industries and expand their market reach.

Speaking during a visit to Tanztech Electronics Limited, a local electronics assembly plant in Arusha, Dr Mwasaga underscored the government's vision of fostering a self-reliant digital economy by reducing dependence on foreign imports.

"We are working towards achieving this goal by attracting enough investors to set up manufacturing plants for various ICT products. This will contribute significantly to our ambition of becoming a digital economy that is independent and not reliant on external support," Dr Mwasaga stated.

He emphasised that the policy shift is part of efforts to accelerate Tanzania’s digital transformation while enhancing economic autonomy. "By manufacturing devices locally, we will also create opportunities for young entrepreneurs to develop digital solutions tailored to local needs," he added. Dr Mwasaga highlighted the benefits of local production, including the potential to develop software and applications addressing challenges in agriculture, livestock, and business sectors. He also noted that local manufacturing would enhance national security by providing better control over data protection and ethical considerations, ensuring safer devices for children and youth.

Despite the government's commitment, the CEO of Tanztech Electronics Limited, Mr Gurveer Hans, raised concerns over challenges in the local manufacturing sector, particularly double taxation on products.

"We manufacture smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices using materials sourced from China. However, one of the biggest challenges we face is the high tax burden. Manufacturers are taxed, and then consumers are taxed again upon purchase, making locally produced devices less competitive," Mr Hans explained. An ICT consultant for the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), Dr George Mulamula, proposed that local manufacturers prioritise Kiswahili-enabled devices to cater to farmers and rural communities.

"Many imported devices do not last long and need frequent replacement. However, locally made devices can be more durable and tailored to specific needs, including solar-powered options for communities without electricity access," Dr Mulamula suggested.

The Tanzanian government’s initiative to promote local manufacturing aligns with its broader strategy to build a sustainable digital economy. By investing in domestic production and empowering ICT entrepreneurs, the country aims to reduce reliance on foreign imports while fostering innovation and economic growth.