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China-Tanzania Trade and Investment Overview

China remains Tanzania's largest trading partner and investor. The economic relationship has evolved significantly, with substantial trade volumes and foreign direct investment (FDI) shaping the bilateral ties.

Trade Dynamics

Tanzania's Exports to China

In 2022, Tanzania exported approximately US$ 447 million worth of goods to China, a decrease from US$ 606 million in 2021. The primary exports included:

  • Other Oily Seeds: US$ 128 million
  • Raw Copper: US$ 102 million
  • Refined Copper: US$ 17.9 million

This reflects an annualized growth rate of 12.2% over the past five years, indicating a consistent demand for Tanzanian products in the Chinese market.

Tanzania's Imports from China

Tanzania's imports from China reached about US$ 6.54 billion in 2022, up from US$ 2.7 billion in 2021. Key imports comprised:

  • Machinery: US$ 764 million
  • Electrical Machinery: US$ 711 million
  • Iron and Steel: US$ 552 million

The growth in imports underscores China's role as a critical supplier of industrial goods to Tanzania.

Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

China is the leading source of FDI in Tanzania. As of February 2024, there are 1,274 registered Chinese projects valued at approximately US$ 11.4 billion, creating an estimated 149,759 jobs across various sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, and services.

In 2021 alone, Chinese FDI inflows amounted to US$ 101.7 million, emphasizing China's ongoing commitment to investing in Tanzania's economic development.

Economic Relations

Tanzania is the largest recipient of Chinese aid in Africa, with historical ties dating back to the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) in the 1960s. Recent initiatives have included significant infrastructure projects such as the halted Bagamoyo port project, which was set to cost around US$ 10 billion, jointly funded by Chinese and Omani investors.

Recent Developments

In March 2024, a business forum highlighted the growing collaboration between Tanzanian and Chinese enterprises, with over 800 Chinese companies expressing readiness to invest in various sectors including manufacturing and telecommunication. This reflects a robust interest in fostering bilateral trade relations.

Latest Update: 29th October 2024

Want to know more about China in Tanzania? Our free Tanzania Business and Investment Guide 2026 covers China, plus regulations, key sectors, and investment opportunities—all in one place.

Download Free Guide
Tanzania Treasury Registrar Nehemiah Mchechu China Ambassador Chen Mingjian
2 minute read

Tanzania Considers China’s Model To Improve Efficiency Of State Owned Enterpises

Tanzania is considering adopting China’s State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) model to improve efficiency and governance of its TZS 92.3 trillion state investment portfolio managed by the Treasury Registrar’s Office. The reform focuses on 308 public institutions.
May 24, 2026
TANZANIA DUTY-FREE ACCESS CHINA 1ST MAY 2026
3 minute read

Tanzania Gains Duty-Free Access to China’s Market Under New Zero-Tariff Policy

Tanzanian exporters have gained duty-free access to China on 100% of tariff lines from 1 May 2026, under a zero-tariff policy covering 53 of Africa’s 54 countries, with Eswatini the only excluded nation. Bilateral China-Tanzania trade reached USD 11.28 billion in 2025, up 27% year-on-year, with cashew nuts, sesame, honey, avocados, coffee, gold, and graphite among the Tanzanian products positioned to benefit from access to the world’s second-largest economy.
May 2, 2026
Tanzania Tiseza Gilead Teri China HWTZ David Zhou
2 minute read

Tanzania to Assemble First CNG Heavy-Duty Lorry at Bagamoyo SEZ With USD 3B Chinese Investment

Tanzania is set to produce its first CNG-powered heavy-duty lorry by the end of 2026 at the Bagamoyo Eco-Maritime City Special Economic Zone, following a USD 3 billion investment commitment by HWTZ SEZ Limited, a subsidiary of China's Hongwang Holding Group. The 500-hectare facility will host over 150 industries—including motorcycle production, boat manufacturing, and spare parts—and is projected to create more than 5,000 direct jobs for Tanzanians.
April 10, 2026

Want to know more about investing in Tanzania? Our free Tanzania Business and Investment Guide 2026 covers key sectors, regulations, and investment opportunities—all in one place.

Download Free Guide