Tanzania Orders Public Institutions to Prioritise Locally Manufactured Goods
Tanzania's Prime Minister, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, has directed public institutions to prioritise locally manufactured products in construction and procurement, calling for stronger domestic demand to protect industries, safeguard jobs and boost national revenue.
DODOMA, Tanzania — November 4, 2026
The Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba, has directed public institutions to prioritise the use of locally manufactured products in construction projects, furniture procurement and other institutional requirements, emphasising that the move is essential to strengthening domestic industries, safeguarding employment and increasing national revenue.
The Prime Minister issued the directive on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, while representing H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, at the official launch of the Sustainable Industrial Development Policy 2025 and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Policy of 2003 (2025 Revised Edition), held at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre in Dodoma.
“This initiative must begin with the Government itself. Even when constructing government buildings, we must use products manufactured here in Tanzania,” Dr. Nchemba said.
The Prime Minister identified glass, reinforcing steel bars, marble and furniture among the products manufactured domestically that public institutions should prioritise in their procurement and construction activities.
He stressed that the Government must lead by example in implementing the policies it formulates, ensuring that policy commitments are translated into practical action.
“We have established these policies, and therefore we must put our words into practice,” he emphasised.
Dr. Nchemba also called for a review of existing laws and regulations, with amendments where necessary, to address potential loopholes that could hinder the use of locally manufactured products or allow institutions to circumvent the directive.
He cautioned that efforts to develop and expand domestic industries would not achieve their intended objectives unless locally manufactured products were actively supported through market demand.
According to the Prime Minister, inadequate demand for domestic products could undermine industrial production, threaten employment opportunities and reduce national revenue.
“Let us use products manufactured in Tanzania with confidence, satisfaction and pride, so that we can protect our industries, safeguard jobs and national revenue, and promote economic growth,” he said.
Prime Minister Calls for Stronger Government–Private Sector Partnership
In a further directive, Dr. Nchemba urged government officials to adopt a more supportive approach towards the private sector, recognising it as a vital partner in building a resilient and self-reliant national economy.
He emphasised the importance of respecting private capital and investment while continuing to create a conducive business environment that enables private enterprises to participate fully in Tanzania's economic development.
The Prime Minister underscored that strengthening cooperation between the Government and private investors is essential to accelerating industrialisation, expanding productive capacity and promoting sustainable economic growth.
His remarks reinforced the Government's commitment to ensuring that the implementation of the newly launched industrial and SME development policies translates into tangible economic benefits, including stronger domestic manufacturing, increased investment, employment opportunities and enhanced competitiveness of Tanzanian products.