Tanzania is increasingly using international cooperation to support economic growth, attract foreign investment, develop infrastructure, improve healthcare services and expand regional and global trade. The country’s economic diplomacy involves cooperation with governments, international organisations, development finance institutions and the private sector to mobilise resources and support development projects. Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs identifies economic diplomacy as one of the key areas of its foreign-policy approach.
Foreign Investment as a Key Priority
For Tanzania, attracting foreign investment is not only about increasing capital inflows. The country also seeks projects that can create jobs, support technology transfer, strengthen domestic production, increase exports and develop local value chains.
According to data published by the Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority – TISEZA, registered investment projects increased from 252 in 2021 to 915 in 2025. Approved investment capital also rose from approximately $3.7 billion to $10.95 billion during the same period. However, the final economic impact of approved projects depends on their implementation and completion.
Infrastructure Development and Regional Connectivity
Transport, energy, ports, railways, roads and digital infrastructure are among the most important areas of Tanzania’s international cooperation.
Tanzania’s location on the Indian Ocean and its access to major ports give the country an important role in connecting East and Central African markets. As a result, the development of ports, transport corridors and connections between inland regions and commercial centres can help reduce logistics costs and strengthen Tanzania’s export capacity.
International cooperation has focused on areas such as port development, renewable energy, electricity interconnections, urban transport and digital connectivity. The European Union, for example, identifies the development of Dar es Salaam Port, transport corridors, renewable energy and regional electricity connections among its cooperation priorities with Tanzania.
Healthcare Cooperation and Development
Healthcare is another important area of Tanzania’s international partnerships. Cooperation may include healthcare infrastructure financing, medical equipment, health-system management, professional training, infectious-disease prevention and improved access to medical services.
In 2026, Tanzania and the United States signed a multi-year health cooperation agreement. According to Reuters, the agreement focuses on strengthening healthcare services and infrastructure, improving health-system management and supporting the prevention of infectious diseases. Such cooperation may create opportunities for companies involved in medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, laboratories, health technology and engineering services.
International Trade and New Markets
Tanzania is working to expand its trade relationships and use regional frameworks such as the East African Community – EAC and the Southern African Development Community – SADC to strengthen regional commerce.
International trade cooperation can involve business forums, trade missions, bilateral agreements, chambers of commerce, supply-chain partnerships and initiatives designed to facilitate exports and imports.
In 2026, Tanzania and Rwanda highlighted cooperation in trade, transport, energy and infrastructure. In September 2026, the Tanzanian Embassy in Türkiye also participated in a trade and investment promotion programme aimed at presenting Tanzania’s business opportunities and strengthening private-sector cooperation.
The Role of International Organisations
International organisations and development finance institutions can support Tanzania through financing, technical assistance, training, knowledge transfer and project preparation.
In June 2026, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, UNIDO, and the Government of Tanzania signed a five-year programme to promote inclusive and sustainable industrial development. The programme supports the implementation of Vision 2050 and brings together public institutions, private-sector actors, financial institutions and development partners.
The Tanzania Investment Growth Facility has also presented a pipeline of priority projects in areas such as energy, electricity infrastructure, water, roads, ports, logistics, industry, the blue economy and renewable energy.
Opportunities for Iranian Companies
The expansion of Tanzania’s international partnerships may create opportunities for Iranian companies in several sectors, including:
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Industrial machinery and equipment;
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Agricultural machinery and irrigation systems;
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Medical and laboratory equipment;
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Pharmaceuticals and healthcare products;
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Energy and electrical equipment;
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Construction materials and engineering technologies;
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Technical and engineering services;
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Information technology and digital solutions;
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Food processing, packaging and cold-chain systems;
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Infrastructure and industrial projects.
Before entering the Tanzanian market, Iranian companies should assess market demand, import regulations, product-registration requirements, standards, payment methods, logistics costs, local partners and contractual arrangements.
Conclusion
Tanzania’s international cooperation in investment, infrastructure, healthcare and trade is part of the country’s broader effort to strengthen economic development and expand its role in the African regional economy. These partnerships can support project financing, technology transfer, infrastructure development, industrial growth, improved public services and stronger commercial connections.
For international companies, including Iranian businesses, Tanzania may offer opportunities in exports, joint ventures, equipment supply, technology transfer and participation in development projects. However, detailed legal, financial and commercial due diligence remains essential before entering the market.
Business Cooperation Opportunity
Are you looking to enter the Tanzanian market? The Iran–Tanzania Business Center can support companies with market research, business opportunity identification, Iranian product promotion, buyer and partner identification, and B2B meeting facilitation.
