The Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF) has established itself as one of the prime trade events in East Africa. Held every year, the DITF is an ideal platform for companies to showcase their products on a pan-African platform. The DITF has grown in stature over the years and attracts more than 1,000 companies from all over the world to participate annually. In addition to companies from Tanzania and the rest of Africa, one can find a large contingent of overseas companies from as far away as the United States, Europe, India, Pakistan, and the Middle East. While in Tanzania for the DITF, many participants also use the opportunity to visit Zanzibar, which has emerged as an important business centre in the region. In recent years, Zanzibar has established itself as an essential destination for exports and re-exports. The Maruhubi port in Zanzibar operates as a free port; imports routed here are exempt from custom duties and import taxes. Merchants and traders are permitted to store their cargo at the port before re-shipping them elsewhere for sale or use. When re-shipping imports stored at the free port, traders are required to pay custom duties only in the country of the goods' final destination. This strategic advantage has helped Zanzibar rapidly emerge as the distribution hub of the East African region. As a result, goods from all parts of the world are shipped to Zanzibar for further re-export and distribution into the East African countries of Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In view of the increased cargo traffic through the Zanzibar port, the government is continuously upgrading its facilities. Major development programmes have modernized existing infrastructure and increased the port's handling capacity, earning it the moniker "Dubai of East Africa." The port is designed to distribute goods seamlessly to the mainland and landlocked countries in the hinterland. The 32,000 square metre facility features a specialized container stocking yard, all-weather warehousing sheds, and a motor vehicle yard capable of stocking a large volume of automobiles. Consequently, cargo movement in Zanzibar has registered a marked increase, handling hundreds of thousands of tonnes of general break-bulk cargo and tens of thousands of tonnes of liquid cargo, alongside a rapidly growing container throughput. Imports into Tanzania have registered steady growth. Progressive economic liberalisation policies adopted by the government, coupled with a sustained economic boom, have played an instrumental role in promoting trade. Tanzania's exports have also expanded significantly, with fresh fruits, vegetables, handicrafts, agricultural products, minerals, and tea leading the market. Automobiles, heavy machinery, consumer electronics, chemicals, second-hand cars, spare parts, textiles, and computing equipment are among the top items imported into Tanzania on a regular basis. According to industry estimates, large volumes of second-hand cars are exported to Tanzania through hubs like Sharjah every month. These right-hand drive cars are heavily sourced from Japan and shipped to meet local demand. "There is a huge demand for quality second-hand cars in Tanzania. Second-hand car dealers in Sharjah and Dubai have been major sources in meeting this increasing demand," noted local traders. The trading ecosystem has been further boosted by government initiatives to streamline foreign exchange regulations, making it easier for Tanzanian businessmen to finalize overseas purchases. Dar es Salaam, the country's primary seaport, serves as the central distribution hub for huge East African markets by providing direct access to landlocked neighbouring nations. The port is linked to the world's major maritime routes with regular sailings to Europe, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East. With a population exceeding 8 million people, Dar es Salaam is the largest city in East Africa and a major industrial and transportation terminus. Tanzania has fully liberalised its economy by removing historical obstacles that hampered the free flow of trade and foreign private investment, creating a highly conducive environment to attract global capital. Top 10 Non-Oil Import Commodities in Tanzania (Est. Value USD Millions) © Africa Business Pages Source: OEC Trade Statistics & Regional Estimates, 2025 Latest Economic & Trade Developments Tanzania’s economy demonstrated robust performance in 2025, reaching a GDP growth rate of 6.0%, and is projected to expand by 6.3% in 2026. This growth trajectory is strongly supported by the completion of major infrastructure initiatives, notably the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, which adds 2,115 MW of capacity to the national grid, and the ongoing expansion of the Standard Gauge Railway. Furthermore, Tanzania achieved a record-breaking $10.95 billion in approved investments across 915 projects in 2025, signaling a massive surge in foreign and domestic capital targeting the manufacturing, mining, and energy sectors. Despite global economic headwinds, the country has maintained vital macroeconomic stability. Headline inflation averaged a controlled 3.3% in 2025, comfortably remaining within the Bank of Tanzania's target range of 3–5%. The mining sector emerged as a star performer, recording a 19% growth rate in early 2025 and generating a record $4.7 billion in gold exports. These revenues, coupled with foreign exchange reserves strengthening to $6.3 billion—enough to cover nearly five months of imports—provide a solid fiscal buffer as the country targets $15 billion in annual foreign direct investment by 2026. Did you know? In 2025, Tanzania recorded its highest-ever investment influx, approving 915 projects valued at nearly $11 billion, more than tripling the project volume seen just four years prior. The mining sector contributed a record-breaking $4.7 billion in gold exports in 2025, accounting for roughly half of the nation's total goods exports. Tanzania's foreign exchange reserves reached $6.3 billion by early 2026, providing a secure buffer equivalent to 4.9 months of import coverage. The country successfully maintained its headline inflation rate at an average of 3.3% throughout 2025, keeping it within the central bank's tight target range of 3% to 5%. Recent infrastructure completions, including the 2,115 MW Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, are expected to drastically boost the energy sector, which is projected to grow by 12% by 2026. Tanzania's tourism sector experienced a massive rebound, generating $4.3 billion in revenues in 2025, driven by an 11.4% increase in international arrivals.

Wedged between the White and Blue Niles, the Al-Mogran development in Khartoum was once envisioned as a huge, shimmering complex of glass and steel. For years, the Sudanese capital sought to leap into modernity with this $4-billion Gulf-funded commercial and residential megaproject. Designed and planned by consultants in the United Arab Emirates and Malaysia, Al-Mogran bore many of the hallmarks of the lavish projects raising billions for developers in the Arabian Gulf. The Sudanese government had sought since the early 1990s to develop this horn of land jutting into one of the widest parts of the Nile. By 2005, the project officially got off the drawing board when the private Sudanese conglomerate DAL joined with authorities to create Alsunut Development. The Dubai Islamic Bank emerged as the largest foreign investor, funneling millions into construction to raise a symbol of Khartoum's post-war renaissance and a beacon of modernity in the region. The gleaming 396-hectare (160-acre) business complex was originally designed to house 58,000 employees. The adjacent residential zone was slated to include about 1,000 villas, 6,700 apartments, international schools, hotels, hospitals, and an 18-hole golf course. Sudan Real GDP Growth - Overview Data Source: IMF & World Bank Projections  |  © Africa Business Pages The Current Reality: A Shift in the Economic Epicenter Although Al-Mogran was designed to give Khartoum a new face, the devastating conflict that erupted across Sudan in 2023 abruptly halted these dreams. The ensuing crisis fundamentally altered the trajectory of the country, causing severe damage to the capital and forcing businesses, diplomatic missions, and administrative bodies to relocate to safer regions. The once-gleaming construction sites in Khartoum now stand largely paused, serving as stark reminders of the nation's fragile stability and the high risks inherent in frontier market investing. In 2025 and 2026, Sudan's economic epicenter definitively shifted away from Khartoum to the Red Sea coast. Port Sudan has rapidly emerged as the country’s de facto administrative and commercial capital, absorbing displaced businesses, international humanitarian agencies, and critical logistics operations. With the former capital severely compromised, the government and foreign investors are now prioritizing the expansion of Port Sudan's maritime, telecommunications, and housing infrastructure to stabilize the nation's vital import-export lifelines. Despite the immense macroeconomic challenges—including a severe multi-year GDP contraction and soaring inflation—the country's agricultural and mining sectors remain highly resilient lifelines. Sudan continues to be one of Africa's premier producers of gold, which accounts for the vast majority of its current export revenues and foreign exchange reserves. As international mediation efforts slowly pave the way for post-conflict stabilization, future FDI is expected to pivot heavily toward essential reconstruction, food security, and renewable energy, laying the groundwork for a grueling but absolutely necessary economic recovery. Top 7 Import Commodities in Sudan Data Source: TrendEconomy / World Bank  |  © Africa Business Pages Import Dynamics and Trading Partners Historically, the average annual income in Sudan barely exceeded $500, and promoters of luxury developments like Al-Mogran admitted that such projects risked widening the gap between wealthy future residents and the impoverished populations living on the fringes. Today, survival and basic commodity imports dictate the national economy. Sudan relies heavily on imports to sustain its population and remaining industrial base. Countries like China, the United Arab Emirates, India, and Egypt remain Sudan's primary import partners. The nation's inbound supply chain is dominated by essential foodstuffs (particularly wheat and cereals to ensure food security), refined petroleum to power generators and vehicles, and life-saving pharmaceuticals. Did You Know? The Gum Arabic Giant: Sudan is the undisputed global leader in the production of gum arabic, accounting for roughly 80% of the world's supply. This critical binder is used worldwide in soft drinks, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. The Gold Lifeline: Sudan is the third-largest producer of gold on the African continent. Today, raw gold exports account for approximately 70% of the nation's total foreign exchange earnings. More Pyramids Than Egypt: The ancient region of Nubia in northern Sudan is home to over 200 ancient pyramids, more than double the number found in neighboring Egypt. The Meeting of the Niles: The historical capital city, Khartoum, is geographically famous as the exact location where the White Nile and the Blue Nile converge to form the mighty main Nile River. The Rise of Port Sudan: Due to the devastating 2023 conflict that severely damaged Khartoum, the coastal city of Port Sudan on the Red Sea has become the de facto operational and economic capital of the country. Related Videos

The healthcare sector in Africa is experiencing remarkable transformation, as hospital infrastructure and the availability of highly qualified medical professionals have dramatically improved over recent years. By transitioning from traditional practices to modern, digitally-enabled healthcare systems, many African nations are meeting the growing demand for quality care. The Council for Health Services Accreditation for Southern Africa (COHASA) continues to accredit hospitals that meet rigorous, published standards. However, the industry still faces a divide between private and public sectors regarding facilities and funding. Public health systems manage significant pressure from infectious diseases, though immense progress has been made in combating them through modern interventions. As a result, there exist immense opportunities for the supply of a wide range of hospital equipment, instrumentation, machinery, and allied medical products. Being a price-sensitive market, African healthcare providers and buyers are always on the lookout for high-quality, competitively priced goods to meet their evolving requirements. All government efforts, as well as the public and private hospital sectors in Africa, are dedicating their energies towards making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the general population, heavily supported by technological innovations. Latest Developments in Healthcare & HealthTech By 2026, digital health is no longer a pilot project but core national infrastructure across the continent. African healthtech has entered a breakout phase, with rapid adoption of AI-enabled diagnostics, Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), and telemedicine bridging the gap between urban centers and rural communities. Governments are rolling out interoperable data systems to enable early epidemic warnings and evidence-based policymaking. Healthcare financing remains a dynamic challenge, but Universal Health Coverage (UHC) strategies are actively shifting from policy to execution. Digital platforms are automating billing, reducing revenue leakage, and powering cashless healthcare systems. This technology-driven financing helps mitigate out-of-pocket expenses, which still constitute a significant portion of healthcare costs in regions struggling with funding gaps. The investment landscape for African HealthTech has seen a massive rebound, with 2025 and 2026 experiencing record capital deployment in M&A, growth-stage venture, and private equity. Investors are concentrating funds into higher-quality, scalable assets, focusing on integrated care platforms, digital diagnostics, and the growing convergence of healthcare and InsurTech to build resilient supply chains. In response to recent health challenges, including outbreaks like Mpox and Marburg, institutions like the Africa CDC have driven a shift from reactive emergency management to proactive system strengthening. The New Public Health Order emphasizes local manufacturing of vaccines, therapeutics, and medical devices, reducing reliance on global supply chains and securing Africa's health sovereignty. Top Destinations for Outbound Medical Tourism from Africa (2026 Est. Market Share) © Africa Business Pages Source: Global Medical Tourism Index & Industry Estimates, 2026 The Rise of Outbound Medical Tourism Despite domestic improvements, outbound medical tourism from Africa continues to grow as the middle and upper classes seek specialized treatments such as advanced oncology, complex cardiac surgeries, and elective procedures not widely available locally. Patients from Nigeria, Kenya, and Egypt frequently travel abroad, spending billions annually on cross-border healthcare. Destinations like India, the UAE, Turkey, and Europe remain the top choices for African medical tourists due to their combination of world-class facilities, competitive pricing, and streamlined visa processes. To capitalize on this, specialized digital B2B matchmaking algorithms and dedicated health tourism agencies are increasingly connecting African buyers and patients with globally acclaimed service providers. Did you know? In 2026, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) strategies across Africa are shifting from policy frameworks to practical implementation, focusing on expanding insurance coverage and integrating private providers. Sub-Saharan Africa currently averages 1.3 doctors per 10,000 people, accelerating the adoption of telemedicine and AI diagnostics to bridge the gap. Out-of-pocket payments still dominate health financing in much of the region, accounting for more than a quarter of all health expenditure in 31 member states. African HealthTech experienced a massive investment rebound post-2024, with capital flowing heavily into integrated care platforms, digital diagnostics, and InsurTech. The Africa CDC transitioned to a phase of long-term structural transformation in 2025, heavily emphasizing local manufacturing and sustainable financing. Destinations like India and the UAE have specialized their medical visa processes to cater specifically to the rising volume of African medical tourists seeking complex, cost-effective procedures.

Djibouti has had tremendous investment promotion success over the last five years and is now one of the leading FDI areas in Africa. Its government has decided to use its Red Sea position and proximity to Ethiopia to the West and the Arabian Gulf to the East, as the driving theme for major investment promotion. But it also recognised that location alone is not enough, so over the past five years it established a Djibouti Free Zone (DFZ), and a new, more modern, foreign investment regime that would support new direct investment into that Zone. Undoubtedly, Djibouti has 'location, location, location' to sell and the country is now a central food aid distribution center, and it boasts a new luxury hotel. In addition, there have been significant moves to liberalise and facilitate trade with Ethiopia. There have been agreements to co-locate customs operations at the Djibouti Port. The two countries are also working towards adopting harmonized clearance and inspection documents and procedures. The DPW is building 'joint' facilities at the new port at Durlaleh so goods can transit freely into the Ethiopian market. Such innovations lower overall distribution costs, and the positive impacts will extend across the Horn of Africa. The main catalysts have been the DFZ and leading investments in it by such groups as Dubai Ports World and, more recently, by Bahrain Maritime and Mercantile International (BMMI), and parallel investments such as the Kempenski Hotel. Djibouti has set the stage for exponential growth. By partnering with groups such as Dubai Ports World and BMMI, the country's leadership has proven itself savvy at investment promotion. By creating the Djibouti Free Zone and engineering a less burdensome regulatory environment, it shows openness to trade and foreign investment. And by taking a prominent role in leading its neighbors to peace-especially Somalia, but also Ethiopia- it has demonstrated a commitment to regional stability. Simply put, no other country in the Horn of Africa has moved so decisively in the direction of economic and political reform.

Africa is fast emerging as one of the most critical trading partners for the United Arab Emirates. As the global economy pivots toward emerging markets, Africa’s status as the most promising commercial frontier of the new millennium is undeniable. The UAE has been remarkably quick to recognize this immense potential, actively deploying sovereign capital and private sector expertise to deeply integrate its logistics and trade networks with the African continent. Dubai’s leadership has consistently singled out Africa as a premier business partner for the coming decades. Trade between the UAE and Sub-Saharan Africa has registered explosive growth. The UAE has successfully transformed itself from a regional Middle Eastern hub into the indispensable global gateway connecting Africa to Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Latest Economic Developments: The CEPA Era In 2025 and 2026, the UAE dramatically accelerated its African integration through the aggressive rollout of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs). By signing landmark free-trade pacts with key economies like Kenya, Mauritius, and the Republic of Congo, the UAE is systematically eliminating non-tariff barriers, reducing customs duties, and securing preferred access to African markets. This diplomatic and economic offensive has catapulted the UAE's total non-oil trade with Africa to well over $60 billion annually, creating unprecedented opportunities for Dubai-based re-exporters and logistics firms. Simultaneously, the UAE is driving a massive wave of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into African infrastructure to support this trade boom. Dubai-based DP World has committed billions to expand deep-water ports and inland logistics parks in Senegal, Angola, and Somaliland, effectively hardwiring Africa's export corridors to the Jebel Ali Free Zone. Furthermore, state-backed green energy giant Masdar is currently funding gigawatts of solar and wind energy projects across the continent, addressing Africa's severe power deficits while cementing the UAE's position as the leading foreign investor in Africa's sustainable future. UAE Non-Oil Trade with Africa - Overview Data Source: UAE Ministry of Economy  |  © Africa Business Pages Evolving Trade Partners Trade patterns between the Gulf and Africa have acquired dynamic new dimensions. While historically, South Africa was the primary destination for Emirati capital, nations like Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria have rapidly surged to the forefront. Nigeria, in particular, has become a vital destination for UAE exports and re-exports, fueled by its massive consumer base. Tanzania and Kenya, often labeled as the primary gateways to East Africa, serve as crucial distribution hubs for UAE goods moving into the landlocked interiors of Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. Uganda, too, is making rapid strides to emerge as a leading commercial center. Recognizing the importance of these progressive economies, hundreds of Middle Eastern companies regularly participate in massive regional trade fairs in Kampala and Nairobi, eager to establish long-term distributorships. The COMESA Connection Trade between the UAE and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has witnessed exponential growth. COMESA is the largest economic bloc on the continent, boasting 21 member states and a combined population of over 600 million consumers. Dubai recognizes COMESA as a unique, highly unified market and has positioned itself as the fundamental hub for trade flowing into and out of the region. The Dubai Chamber of Commerce actively champions this relationship, opening multiple international representative offices across East and West Africa to facilitate bilateral trade, assist Emirati companies in navigating local regulations, and provide African importers with direct access to vetted Dubai suppliers. Top 7 Non-Oil Exports from UAE to Africa Data Source: UAE Ministry of Economy / UN COMTRADE  |  © Africa Business Pages Farmlands, Food Security, and Telecommunications Beyond traditional consumer goods, GCC nations have increasingly invested in African agriculture to ensure domestic food security. The UAE, reliant on food imports, has deployed sovereign entities like ADQ to acquire strategic stakes in major agricultural supply chains and secure vast tracts of arable land in countries like Sudan and Tanzania. These multimillion-dollar deals provide critical capital to overhaul poverty-stricken rural areas while building modern farming infrastructure. The telecommunications sector remains another crown jewel of UAE-Africa relations. UAE telecom giant "e&" (formerly Etisalat) has been at the forefront of digitizing the continent. Operating heavily under the "Moov Africa" brand, the company controls vast network infrastructures across West and Central Africa—including Benin, Ivory Coast, Gabon, and Togo. By pumping billions into mobile broadband expansion, e& is ensuring that Africa’s tech-savvy youth remain connected to the global digital economy. With Africa predicted to solidify its status as the engine of global growth in the coming decades, the UAE has perfectly positioned itself. Truly, Africa is the market of tomorrow, and Dubai is its global gateway. Did You Know? A Global Heavyweight: The UAE is currently the fourth-largest foreign direct investor in Africa globally, trailing only behind superpowers like China, the EU, and the United States. The Business Magnet: As of 2026, over 25,000 African-owned companies are officially registered and operating within the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, utilizing the city as their global base. Unmatched Aviation Links: Emirates Airlines and flydubai dominate African airspace, offering direct passenger and cargo flights to over 25 major destinations across the continent. Logistics Dominance: Dubai-based DP World is the largest port operator in Africa, managing critical deep-water terminals and logistics hubs in more than 10 African nations. The CEPA Strategy: The UAE is aggressively signing Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) with African countries to drastically reduce import tariffs and supercharge bilateral trade.

Tracking Global FDI in African Farmland Total Land Acquired 0 ha Total Investment $0 Primary Target Crops Click nodes on the map for detailes.© Africa Business Pages

Africa’s rapid economic growth is creating substantial new business opportunities that are often overlooked by global companies. The African market today in undoubtedly one of the most lucrative and profitable business destination. Analysts project that industries, agriculture, resources, and infrastructure – together could generate as much as $2.8 trillion in revenue for African countries annually by the year 2025 – or $1 trillion more than what it generates today. Africa’s collective GDP, at over $1.5 trillion in 2020, is now roughly equal to the large economies of Brazil or Russia. While Africa’s increased economic momentum is widely recognised, less known are its sources and likely staying power. Natural resources directly accounted for just 24 per cent of the continent’s GDP growth from 2010 through 2020. Experts believe that the key to Africa’s growth surge were improved political and macroeconomic stability and microeconomic reforms. It is forecast that future economic growth in Africa will be supported by the continent’s increasing ties to the global economy. Rising demand for commodities is driving buyers around the world to pay dearly for Africa’s natural riches and to forge new types of partnerships with African producers. And Africa is gaining greater access to international capital; total foreign capital flows into Africa rose from $15 billion in 2000 to a peak of over $120 billion in 2019. Today the rate of return on foreign investment in Africa is higher than in any other developing region. Early entry into African economies provides opportunities to create markets, establish brands, shape industry structure, influence customer preferences, and establish long-term relationships. Business can help build the Africa of the future. The rise of the African urban consumer also will fuel long-term growth. Today, 40 per cent of Africans live in urban areas, a portion close to China’s and continuing to expand. The number of households with discretionary income is projected to rise by 50 per cent over the next 10 years, reaching 128 million. By 2030, the continents’ top 18 cities could have a combined spending power of $1.3 trillion. In recent times, there has been a scramble for the resources and markets of Africa. China, India and Brazil, among others, are competing with African countries’ traditional trading partners, from Europe and America, to win access to the continent’s commodities. China and India in particular are funding and building economic and social infrastructure projects across the continent. BRICs countries – Brazil, Russia, India and China – are expected to play a significant role in the future growth of Africa. The global recession and its recovery have been nourishing these so-called South-South ties and recent reports that: • By 2025, BRIC-Africa trade will have increased threefold, to over $750 billion from $155 billion in 2010. • BRICs share of Africa’s total trade will increase from one-fifth today to one-third in the next five years. • BRICS foreign direct investment stock in Africa will swell to more than $150 billion from around $80 billion today. Notably, a host of companies from the BRIC are now playing a larger role in the international arena. In 2019 alone, 231 (or 11.5 per cent of the total) companies listed in the Forbes Global 2000 originated in the BRICs – up from only 83 companies (four per cent) in 2015. Undoubtedly, the writing is on the wall – BRIC-Africa partnership is going to shape the future of global economy in years to come. Companies and businesses from BRIC operating in Africa are outpacing American and European rivals through lower prices, faster action, and a greater willingness to work in difficult environments. However, there’s a great deal of negative publicity surrounding many African countries, and that tends to be all that people hear about. But in reality there are 54 countries on the continent and in many of them, there are an enormous amount of positive things happening. There are extraordinarily promising possibilities in agribusiness, infrastructure, and tourism. The best possibilities are in the southern half of the continent, countries like Mozambique, South Africa, Mauritius, and Namibia. Ghana has enormous potential in its ports, fisheries, and tourism, as does Botswana. As more and more opportunities present themselves, Africa is sure to emerge as one of the most profitable places to do business with – those who do not take notice of Africa’s tremendous potential in the coming years surely risk getting left behind in the race. Related Articles

Many international businesses which are interested indeveloping their market in the Middle East have been lured by some attractive features offered by Dubai. The sheer size of the market in Dubai has been increasing at a steady pace. Although the United Arab Emirates has a relatively smaller population than other Middle East countries, its total imports have been registering a steady growth with the passing of each year. The impressive performance can be attributed to the fact that Dubai has emerged as the major re-export centre for the entire Middle East region. Dubai's non-oil imports have been growing by leaps and bounds since early 80's. These figures are certain to gain further momentum in the coming years as many of the economies of the region (which are being serviced by Dubai) are still at a relatively early stage of development. As a result, there is plenty of long-term scope for diversification and expansion. As a major supplier of goods to such emerging markets as India, the CIS, Central Asia and Africa, Dubai is well poised to further strengthen its status as the distribution hub of the Middle East. As one of the most active and outgoing markets in the region, Dubai has the potential to promote almost any type of goods and services. In a regional context, Dubai has been playing an important role catering to the increasing demand for foodstuff, high technology equipment and luxury products in the small but prosperous Gulf countries. In addition to inter-Gulf trade, Dubai also reaches an "outlying ring" of huge markets including East African countries, the CIS, Iran and the Indian sub-continent. Therefore, by establishing a base in Dubai, international businessmen, manufacturers and exporters of less sophisticated equipment and mass consumer products can also successfully find readily available buyers for their goods. The absence of any foreign exchange controls, quotas or trade barriers makes Dubai one the most attractive trading posts in the region. The fact that import dutiesare extremely low, and that many products are exempt, further adds to the status of Dubai as the business centre of the Middle East. As a further incentive, businessmen will be impressed by the Emirate's efficient transport and telecommunications infrastructure - an absolute must in today's fast moving corporate world. Dubai's ports, considered to be one of the best in the world, are served by more than 100 shipping lines. And the Dubai International Airport is served by over 100 airlines at present. Yet, one of the most unique features of Dubai is its ability to conduct international business with a local flavour. Foreign businessmen are often impressed by Dubai-based entrepreuners who are able to blend their local and regional expertise with a full understanding of international business practices. Unlike some other parts of the world, language has never been a restraining factor in Dubai's multi-cultural trading community. English is commonly used as the main language of business in addition to almost all major dialects of the world. Would-be investors can also avail of advisory services from foreign banks, lawyers and other advisor - including the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, the Economic Department, Chamber Commerce & Industry and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority. The various incentives offered by Dubai has already attracted manufacturers and exporters from all over the world. Therefore, any new entrants seeking success in the lucrative Dubai market must make sure that their products can compete in price, technology, design and value. Competition, as they say, breeds quality. MODERN INFRASTRUCTURE The UAE has a fairly well developed and modern infrastructure. Land transportation is by road. A concrete road network links all main cities. Authorities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are busily engaged in widening existing roads and upgrading the Abu Dhabi-Dubai highway. There is no rail system in the UAE, nor any domestic air transportation network, despite the fact that five of the seven emirates have modern airports. All the emirates have modern seaports. The port of Jebel Ali in Dubai is the largest manmade port in the world. Goods are imported for the most part by sea and distributed by truck within the UAE and to nearby locations in neighboring GCC countries. As part of its drive to diversify its economy away from oil to regional trade, Dubai has developed two seaports and its airport to handle re-export cargo with considerable expertise and precision. Given that international shippers operating between Europe and the Far East prefer to make only one stop in the Gulf, Dubai has managed to secure the lion's share of the business of unloading, breaking down, and reloading cargo for onward shipment. Dubai's physical facilities and sheer expertise in this area make its ports the preferred stops for most shippers on these routes. Dubai aggressively seeks out new re-export markets, and it has developed trade ties with the newly independent Central Asian states of the former Soviet Union. Dubai 's cargo village at its international airport handles more air cargo than any other airport in the region, much of it coming into Dubai by sea from the Far East or the subcontinent and then going out by air to Europe. FREE TRADE ZONES There are at several free zones operating in the UAE and more are planned. Since UAE tariffs are low and are not levied against most imports, the chief attraction of the free zones is the waiver of the requirement for majority local ownership. In the free zones, foreigners may own up to 100 per cent of the equity in an enterprise. The largest and most successful of the free zones is the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZ) in Dubai. Each free zone offers special incentives to attract tenants, such as no taxation for many years, subsidized energy rates, and full repatriation of capital and profits. In addition, for a nominal fee the zone authorities provide significant support services, such as sponsorship, worker housing, dining facilities, recruitment, and security. SHOPPING PARADISE Dubai offers the visitor a fascinating kaleidoscope of contrasts a distinctive blend of modern city and timeless desert, east and west, old and new. An exotic destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Dubai combines the comfort and convenience of the western world with the unique charm and hospitality of Arabia. The city offers superb facilities for sport and recreation, from golf and watersports to desert safaris and dhow cruises. Or simply the opportunity to relax and enjoy year-round sunshine on clean, uncrowded beaches. Dubai is known as a shoppers' paradise. Gold, jewellery, designer clothes, cameras, electronics, oriental rugs - whatever your taste, you'll find it here. From ancient souks to luxurious shopping malls, the visitor can count on bargains galore. Dubai's culture firmly rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia courtesy and hospitality are among the most highly prized virtues. You are sure to be charmed by the genuine warmth and friendliness that greets the visitors. For first-time visitors, an ideal starting point is Dubai's picturesque Creek, a natural inlet from the Gulf which bisects the city into Deira and Bur Dubai. From the Creek, traditional wooden dhows set out for the ports of India, the Gulf and East Africa, just as they have for generations. On its banks, the bustle of loading and unloading makes for a fascinating sight. The windtowers of the Bastakiya district, the narrow alleys of the souks, the restored house of Sheikh Saeed in Shindagha, the Al Ahmadieh School Dubai's first educational institution and the ancient Al Fahidi Fort, now home to the recently refurbished Dubai Museum, all other a captivating taste of the cit's past. A wide range of tours and excursions are available. Among the most popular are safaris into the desert by four wheel drive, combining the excitement of dune driving with a glimpse of bedouin life, a camel farm visit and culminating, perhaps, at a moonlit Arabian barbecue. Dubai's many fine hotel restaurants offer a microcosm of the world's cuisine. The choice is limitless Gulf and Middle Eastern, India, Filipino, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, French, Italian, Mexican and much more. Outside the hotels, Dubai Offers the visitor a gastronomic adventure, with hundreds of small eating places scattered throughout the city. Fast food ranges from several big international chains to shawarma outlets, selling grilled shavings of lamb or chicken, mixed with salad and rolled inside a pocket of Arabic bread. By night, Dubai has something for everyone. Bars and pubs can be found in all top hotels, most of them featuring live music. There are a choice of discotheques and Arabic nightclubs. And Dubai is on the regular circuit for many international stars from the top scene opera, Asian music and even the London theatre. One of Dubai's greatest attractions for visitors is the superb shopping that one can do in this cosmopolitan city. Being an open port with very low import duties and no taxation, the city offers the bargain hunter unbeatable value for money. Most major brand name products are readily available, and are often less expensive in Dubai than their country or origin. Dubai is the undisputed sports capital of the Middle East, hosting world class international events that attract some of the biggest names in their respective sports, whether in golf, tennis, horse racing, rallying powerboating, rugby or sailing. Apart from spectator sports, visitors to Dubai can actively participate in a wide variety of land and watersports that include golf, bowling, iceskating, archery, horse riding, scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, water-sking, jet-sking, deep sea fishing and windsurfing. Facilities are excellent, the weather is perfect during the winter months and equipment can be hired at reasonable rates.

Addis Ababa loosely translated means a ‘new flower’ and the capital city of Ethiopia is in many ways blooming like a flower. Known as the home to the African Union, formerly the Organization of African Union (OAU), Addis Ababa is the largest city in Ethiopia with a population of over 2.5 million and is often referred to as the capital of Africa because of its historical diplomatic and political significance to the African continent. Founded in 1887, this sprawling, hospitable city is situated at the foothills of the Entoto Mountains has lots to see if one is visiting for pleasure and or business – lots of souvenirs from the signature white Ethiopian dresses with intricate trimmings to fashionable outfits mostly from Italy. The city has is in the middle of a construction boom with lots of construction from skyscrapers to condors and roads. The city is growing rapidly in modernity compared to other African cities. The city is undergoing a major construction boom, where the skyline suddenly has more halfway-done high-rise buildings than ever before, and new hotels are being built at a breakneck speed. Hotels, shopping centres and office complexes rise from where small shacks once stood. Infrastructure is improving to support them. Tall, incomplete buildings are visible as far as the eye can see. In addition to the construction boom, many of its roads are being expanded and redone. The new African Union headquarters, built on the ruins of a maximum security prison, is the centerpiece of the Chinese influence. Built by the Chinese, with Chinese money, for Africa, the building spans 50,000 square metres and has more space than the AU has staff members. President after thankful president lined up at the opening of the new headquarters to thank the Chinese for the $200 million gift. And to top it off, the Chinese gave a further $100 million for the upkeep of the building. Equatorial Guinea president Teodoro Obiang Nguema noted that the generous Chinese did not even blink when the AU handed over the building specifications; they just nodded and started flying in Chinese workers to get the job done in record time. Chinese investment in Addis Ababa is bolder than anywhere else in Africa. You can’t drive for more than five minutes without seeing a massive banner in English and Mandarin celebrating the friendship between Ethiopia and China. Seeing the construction boom, diaspora Ethiopians with swollen pockets are returning with an eye on investment. No wonder some people speculate that in some years to come, Addis will be the new Dubai of Africa, with eye catching architectural buildings – what with the structural transformation of the city, the skyscrapers going up; each with unique architectural designs. And it’s not just real estate that’s booming, but there is also the construction of a light rail around the city being carried out by a Chinese railway company, the likes of those found in European countries. It is no wonder that Addis Ababa has made it to the top ten as one of the best cities to visit in Africa, published by the renowned Lonely Planet, a global travel guidebook. Mot to mention that the Ethiopian capital is number nine on the list with Puerto Iguazu of Argentina coming number 10, while San Francisco, California and Amsterdam in the Netherlands came first and second respectively.

The East African Community (EAC) is the regional intergovernmental organisation of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania. The EAC aims to create a prosperous, competitive, secure, stable and politically united East Africa; and the Mission is to widen through increased competitiveness, value added production, trade and investments.The EAC countries established a Customs Union in 2005 and a Common Market in 2010. The next phase of the integration will see the bloc enter into a Monetary Union and ultimately become a Political Federation of the East African States. The realisation of a large regional economic bloc encompassing Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda with a combined population of more than 130 million people and a combined Gross Domestic Product of $74.5 billion, bears great strategic and geopolitical significance and prospects of a renewed and reinvigorated East African Community The regional integration process is at a high pitch at the moment as reflected by the encouraging progress of the East African Customs Union and the establishment in 2010 of the Common Market. The negotiations for the East African Monetary Union, which commenced in 2011, and fast tracking the process towards East African Federation all underscore the serious determination of the East African leadership and citizens to construct a powerful and sustainable East African economic and political bloc. A single market has many benefits. With full freedom of movement for all the factors of production between the member countries, the factors of production become more efficiently allocated, further increasing productivity. For both business within the market and consumers, a single market is a very competitive environment, making the existence of monopolies more difficult. This means that inefficient companies will suffer a loss of market share and may have to close down. However, efficient firms can benefit from economies of scale, increased competitiveness and lower costs, as well as expect profitability to be a result. Consumers are benefited by the single market in the sense that the competitive environment brings them cheaper products, more efficient providers of products and also increased choice of products. What is more, businesses in competition will innovate to create new products; another benefit for consumers. Other benefits include common and coordinated policies that increase efficiency especially in those countries that are behind in their instituting good policies. In addition the common regulatory regime and frameworks ensure that best practice within the regional framework is not only in place but adhered to. The closeness of market “single” ensure that good procedures are instituted and practiced and thus creates a kind of seamless market. In addition, by being in common market and practising common policies and regulations countries in the trading bloc become their “brothers’ keepers” and therefore they create a system of surveillance upon one another based on “best endeavours” and at time backed by legal systems. This in a way creates an efficient bloc that will operate in a higher indifference curve in consumption and efficient production curve. Under the Common Market Protocol, Partner States agreed to remove all barriers and restrictions on the movement, sale, investment and payments of capital. Partner States have also agreed to remove any discrimination based on the nationality or on the place of residence of the persons or on the place where the capital is invested.

For exporting goods to Tanzania, there are some formal governmental procedures to be taken into consideration. The following document will describe the procedures that have to be passed and it will also state what is required from you at the different stages. Unless the following guidelines are cautiously and timely followed up there will most certainly be delays in shipment of goods which will consequently result to late clearance and delivery of the goods to the final customer. The supplier can be held responsible for any additional costs incurred on shipment due non-compliance of the import procedures. Import Declaration Form (IDF) All imports to Tanzania require an IDF. When the importer in Tanzania applies for an IDF, the information to be filled out on the application is to be provided by the supplier together with a Proforma Invoice . Following information is required on the Proforma Invoice to facilitate accurate application of IDF. The information to be supplied by the exporter includes i) Specification and a clear description of the quantity and quality of the goods, ii) Free On Board (FOB) Value iii) Freight Value iv) Customs Harmonised Commodity Code v) Currency of the payment vi) Mode of Transportation, vii) Goods Country of Origin viii) The Proforma invoice number and final invoice number must read same. As per the rules of Tanzania Revenue Authority all exports into Tanzania will are subject to Destination Inspection by Tanzania Inspection Service Company (TISCAN). This is a Tanzanian registered company and a member of the COTECNA S.A GROUP. The main objectives of Destination Inspection is to verify the quality and quantity of imports and to assist Customs with the collection of the correct amounts of duties and taxes. Destination Inspection also provides Customs with an independent opinion of the Dutiable Value for Customs purposes and to verify the accuracy of tariff codes classifications. As soon as an importer has arranged to import goods and has entered into a contract with an overseas supplier, he should apply to his Commercial Bank for an Import Declaration Form (IDF). The importer must present a Proforma Invoice for the goods to be imported and will be obliged to pay a Destination Inspection Processing Fees of 1.2 per cent of the FOB value to his Commercial Bank. The Bank will then transfer the IDF and Proforma Invoice to Importer and TISCAN in Dar-es-Salaam, usually within the same working day. Importers and agents have to ensure that an IDF with all relevant Documents reach the inspection company at least 10 working days prior to arrival of the goods. Once TISCAN receives the IDF and Pro forma Invoice from the Bank, a preliminary review of the documents is carried out and the details entered into TISCAN computer system. TISCAN then electronically transmits the IDF data to affiliate in country of export for documentary data verification. Upon receipt of original documentation from suppliers, TISCAN shall prepare an Internal Findings Report (IFR) Upon receiving the IFR and there is no discrepancy in the importer’s declaration, TISCAN issues a Preliminary Classification and Valuation Report (PCVR) and Declared Classification and Valuation Report (DCVR). The PCVR / DCVR provides TISCAN’s opinions on values, classification and level of Intervention / Inspection determined by the CRMS. If importer accepts PCVR, he signs it and applies for a Single Bill of Entry (SBE). Documents to be submitted together with the application include PCVR, IDF copy, Original Shipping documents like Commercial Invoice and Ocean Bill of Lading together with original duty/taxes exemption documents (if applicable).

India has been actively promoting trade with Africa in recent years. To boost the country’s trade with the Sub-Saharan African region, the Government of India launched the “Focus: Africa” programme under the EXIM Policy. Target countries identified during the first phase of the programme include Mauritius, Kenya and Ethiopia. The Government of India provides financial assistance to various trade promotion organisations, export promotion councils and apex chambers in the form of Market Development Assistance under the “Focus: Africa” programme. To promote bilateral and regional commercial relations with the COMESA Region, India’s Exim Bank has extended Lines of Credit (LOCs) to support export of eligible goods on deferred payment terms. The operative LOCs covering this region include US$ 5 million each to the Eastern and Southern African Trade and Development Bank (PTA Bank), the Industrial Development Bank Ltd, Kenya, and the East African Development Bank (EADB). These Lines of Credit seek to expand export of product groups identified as those with potential to enhance trade between two regions. India's potential exports to these countries include machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products, paper and wood products, textiles, iron and steel, plastic and linoleum products, rubber manufactured products, agro products, chemicals and pharmaceutical products. These countries can also be important sources for import of petroleum, metallurgical goods, raw cotton, fruit, vegetables and preparations, chemicals, non-metallic mineral manufactures, precious stones, textile yarn, gold, nickel, and ferro-alloys. Further, these countries offer potential for investment in sectors such as tourism, pharmaceuticals, electronics, computer software and accessories, information technology related products, financial services and textiles. India-Africa Bilateral Trade (2023 - 2030) Data Source: Ministry of Commerce & Industry / CII  |  © Africa Business Pages On another front, the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh has signed a preliminary deal with Kenya and Uganda to send 500 farmers to cultivate land in the East African nations. The Andhra Pradesh government has signed letters of intent with Kenya for 50,000 acres (20,234 hectares) and with the Uganda Investment Authority for 20,000 acres (8,000 hectares). The Indian farmers would work as entrepreneurs and landowners, not as labourers. With East Africa lacking experienced manpower to till the land, Andhra Pradesh officials spotted a good opportunity to export its skilled manpower. Authorities in East Africa signed the agreements to give land on a 99-year-old lease to a farmers co-operative society from Andhra Pradesh. Land in Uganda is being given for $3.75 dollars per acre while the government is still negotiating the price for Kenya. “This is an encouraging development. Our farmers are very good at what they do but theyve been set back by droughts and a shortage of fertile land. Now they'll be able to take full advantage of the land and infrastructure in Africa,” said N Raghuveera Reddy, agriculture minister of Andhra Pradesh. In another development, the Indian government opened a business centre in Durban to help cut the red tape in deals between the two nations. With more Indian businessmen looking to gain a foothold in South Africa, a high-powered delegation headed by India's wealthiest man, industrialist Ratan Tata, visited the country recently. Already Tata Motors and its rival, Indian car giant Mahindra & Mahindra, have made inroads into the South African motor industry with the recent launch of new vehicles. Tata Africa Holdings, a subsidiary of the Tata Group, is vying for a controlling stake in South Africa's second telephone network operator worth more than Rands 4 billion. Total bilateral trade betwen India and South Africa is approaching Rand 6.5 billion, with imports from India at Rand 3.12 billion and exports to India at Rand 3.35 billion. Indian investment in South Africa is estimated at $100 million. Did You Know? Historic Trade Milestone: In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, bilateral trade between India and Africa officially crossed the $100 billion threshold for the very first time, reaching $103 billion. Target 2030: Driven by explosive demand and the AfCFTA, the Indian government and African leaders have set a unified, ambitious target to double bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2030. G20 Champion: During its 2023 G20 Presidency, India was the primary advocate and driving force behind the African Union being granted permanent, full-member status in the G20. The Pharmacy of the World: India remains a critical lifeline for African healthcare, supplying over 40% of all generic medicines and vaccines consumed across the African continent. Capacity Building: Through the ITEC program and the Pan-African e-Network, India has provided tens of thousands of fully funded scholarships and technical training programs to African students and professionals.