TanTrade opens foreign markets for local startups

**DAR ES SALAAM: **STARTUPS are eyeing international markets after two local businesses secured invitations to participate in a trade fair in Mozambique, an initiative aimed at expanding export opportunities, building business partnerships and improving the competitiveness of locally developed products.

The invitations followed their participation in the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair, according to the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade).

The development highlights efforts to turn local innovations into competitive businesses by improving product quality, expanding market access and linking entrepreneurs with potential buyers beyond Tanzania’s borders.

Speaking during Startups Week on Monday, TanTrade Director General Mr Ephraim Mafuru said the authority was expanding support for startups through trade exhibitions, business advisory services and the promotion of locally developed products.

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He said during Sabasaba 2026, the Ministry provided 21 startups from 10 sectors with dedicated exhibition space within its pavilion, alongside specialised business advisory services through TanTrade’s Business Clinic.

The participating businesses operated in sectors ranging from information and communication technology and e-commerce to soap and footwear manufacturing, online waste collection, tailoring, honey and sunflower processing, wine production, recycled-plastic bricks and technical equipment.

The platform enabled entrepreneurs to showcase their products, engage potential business partners and receive guidance on improving their operations and accessing new markets.

“The invitation to Mozambique gives our startups an opportunity to showcase their products internationally, build business partnerships and explore new markets beyond Tanzania,” Mr Mafuru said.

He said TanTrade would sustain the momentum by facilitating startups’ participation in local and international exhibitions, conferences and trade missions.

“We will also strengthen Business Clinics to help startups improve product quality, packaging and standards compliance, understand market requirements and connect with potential buyers and business support institutions,” he said.

Mr Mafuru said TanTrade would also help startups protect their innovations through intellectual property registration with the Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA), safeguarding their ideas while strengthening their competitiveness and commercial potential. Business clinics are planned for Dar es Salaam, Mbinga, Mbeya and Mwanza, with a session in Dar es Salaam scheduled for early next month.

TanTrade will also monitor the progress of supported startups and promote the use of the “Made in Tanzania” mark to enhance product recognition and improve the competitiveness of locally manufactured goods.

The initiative aims to help startups move beyond exhibition participation towards building sustainable businesses capable of competing in regional and international markets.

The key challenge will be translating exhibition exposure and new business connections into lasting sales, strategic partnerships and sustained growth. The startups that participated in the Maputo trade fair were SWAENERGY and Cut Off Recycle Limited.

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