Tanzania remains one of East Africa’s fastest-growing economies, with real GDP expanding by 5.6% in 2024 and growth projected to rise to around 5.9% in 2025.
The economy is anchored by agriculture, which contributes roughly 23–24% of GDP, alongside a steadily expanding industrial sector representing about 31–33% of national output. Services account for nearly half of the economy, driven by a vibrant tourism industry that contributed about 17% of GDP in 2024 following strong visitor growth.
With ongoing reforms, growing urban demand and advances in digitalisation and sustainability, Tanzania offers meaningful opportunities for Swiss exporters. Key areas include infrastructure, machinery, agritech, hospitality solutions, financial services and digital technologies. However, companies need to consider challenges such as currency depreciation, a widening fiscal deficit and evolving regulatory frameworks. Careful planning, solid risk management and strong local partnerships are essential for long-term success.
No
Free Trade Agreement
There is a free trade agreement between Switzerland and this country. Source: State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
0.44 0.44 billion
Total trade flows
Total goods traded with Switzerland (imports + exports). Source: UN Comtrade. Data as of 2023.
15.26 15.26 %
3-year GDP growth
Total real GDP growth over the last three years. Source: World Bank. Data as of 2023.
Tanzania is projected to maintain solid medium-term growth of around 6% per year through 2027, supported by rising investment in energy, transport and logistics corridors, construction, and agriculture-linked value chains, provided a backdrop of relative political continuity is maintained.
Stéphanie Labité
Head of Swiss Business Hub Southern AfricaLatest insights
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FAQs
What is the current economic situation?
Tanzania recorded real GDP growth of 5.6% in 2024, with projections of around 5.9% for 2025. Inflation remains low at approximately 3.1%, signalling a stable macroeconomic environment. However, the Tanzanian shilling has depreciated by about 4–5%, which may increase import costs. Exporters should factor exchange-rate developments into pricing and contracts.
What are the main export and import trends?
Exports continue to rise, supported by higher earnings from services, agriculture and gold. Goods and services exports increased significantly in 2024–2025, reflecting strong tourism and commodity performance. Imports have also grown, driven by machinery, fuel and industrial supplies. Switzerland remains a relevant partner, though its share in Tanzania’s exports has declined as the market diversifies.
What opportunities exist for Swiss companies?
Opportunities for Swiss companies span tourism and hospitality technologies, machinery and industrial equipment, agritech, financial services and digital solutions. Strong tourism growth, industrial investment and rising demand for quality machinery and services create favourable conditions for Swiss exporters known for reliability and precision.
Which sectors are most promising?
Promising sectors include manufacturing and industrial machinery, which attract substantial investment; agriculture and agritech, given the sector’s large GDP share; and tourism, which continues to expand with record visitor arrivals. Digitalisation in financial services and public administration is also accelerating, opening new opportunities for Swiss technology providers.
What are the main challenges and risks?
Key challenges include exchange-rate volatility, shifting regulations and fiscal pressures that may affect investment conditions. External factors - such as geopolitical developments or fluctuations in global commodity prices - can also impact demand and supply chains. Exporters should prepare with hedging strategies, local partnerships and ongoing regulatory monitoring.
