Tanzania Reviews Investment Policy, Focusing on Land, Access to Capital and Business Environment

Tanzania has opened its draft 2026 National Investment Policy for public and private-sector consultation. The proposed reforms aim to improve the business environment, expand access to capital and land, and strengthen the participation of domestic and foreign investors in the country’s economic development.

According to The Citizen on October 9, 2026, the proposed policy is intended to replace the National Investment Policy introduced in 1996 and align the investment framework with Tanzania’s long-term development ambitions under Dira 2050.

Why Is Tanzania Reviewing Its Investment Policy?

The proposed policy seeks to establish an updated framework for guiding public and private investment. Under Dira 2050, the private sector is expected to provide approximately 70 percent of the investment required to achieve national development targets.

The policy review is therefore intended to address barriers that may limit business growth, investment and access to essential services.

Three Key Areas of Reform

1. Access to Land

Access to suitable land for commercial and industrial activities is one of the issues raised during consultations with private-sector representatives. Clearer and more efficient land-related procedures could be important for companies planning factories, warehouses and other productive facilities.

2. Access to Capital and Credit

Improving access to finance is another key priority, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. According to the report, businesses operating outside formal systems may struggle to obtain loans because they lack verifiable financial records and documented income.

Formalisation and electronic payment records could help financial institutions assess businesses’ creditworthiness more effectively.

3. Improving the Business Environment

The government and private-sector representatives are discussing challenges affecting business operations, access to essential services and investment decisions. The proposed policy aims to provide a clearer framework for business expansion, employment creation and broader economic participation.

Role of Chambers of Commerce and the Private Sector

Representatives of the Tanzania National Chamber of Commerce and the Tanzania Private Sector Federation have participated in consultations on the draft policy.

The discussions have highlighted the importance of improving access to land and finance, increasing domestic investment, and ensuring that local businesses benefit from opportunities created by major investment projects.

Strengthening domestic enterprises is not intended to exclude foreign investors. Rather, the objective is to build stronger links between foreign investment and the local economy.

Potential Business Opportunities for Iranian Companies

The policy review may be relevant to Iranian companies considering business expansion or partnerships in Tanzania. Potential areas to investigate include:

• Manufacturing and processing: Cooperation with local producers and investors.
• Industrial machinery: Potential demand for production, packaging and processing equipment.
• Agriculture and food processing: Investment and supply opportunities across agricultural value chains.
• Warehousing and logistics: Services and infrastructure supporting distribution and supply chains.
• Joint ventures: Exploring partnerships with Tanzanian businesses, subject to applicable laws and investment requirements.

These are potential areas for market research, not confirmed investment projects or purchase orders. Companies should independently verify current rules on company registration, land access, taxation, permits and foreign investment.

Conclusion

Tanzania’s proposed 2026 National Investment Policy places land access, financing and the business environment among the key issues for reform. Its final provisions and implementation will be important in determining how the changes affect local enterprises and foreign investors.

For Iranian businesses, monitoring the policy’s development and identifying suitable local partners can help inform decisions about entering or expanding in the Tanzanian market.

The Iran–Africa Business Center can assist with market research, potential partner identification and B2B connections between Iranian companies and Tanzanian businesses.

Source: The Citizen
https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/news/national/tanzania-invites-public-views-on-draft-investment-policy-5625640