The Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Industry and Trade, has issued a new order restricting foreigners from engaging in specific small-scale business activities nationwide. The prohibited sectors include wholesale and retail trading (excluding supermarkets), mobile money transfers, mobile phone and electronics repair, domestic tour guiding, business and real estate brokerage, clearing and forwarding, and the ownership or operation of micro and small industries. The move follows findings of increased foreign involvement in these traditionally sensitive sectors, which have been reserved for Tanzanian citizens.
Violations of the order are now classified as criminal offences. Foreigners found operating in restricted sectors face up to six months’ imprisonment or fines of up to TZS 10 million, along with the revocation of their visa and permit. Tanzanians who knowingly assist foreigners to breach the regulations also face penalties, including fines up to TZS 5 million or up to three months’ imprisonment. The government has also declared that licenses for businesses currently owned by foreigners in the restricted sectors will not be renewed once they expire.