Tanzania is playing a pivotal role in the expansion of economic cooperation between Iran and East Africa. The upcoming joint economic committee meeting, co-chaired by the Iranian Agriculture Minister and the Tanzanian Minister of Industry and Trade, highlights the deepening partnership between the two nations. Over 50 Iranian companies have confirmed their participation, signaling a significant boost in trade relations.
One of the key developments in this relationship is the draft agreement on eliminating double taxation, signed by officials from both countries in mid-March. Tanzanian Ministry of Finance’s Acting Commissioner, William M. Moja, and Hossein Abdollahi from Iran’s Legal Office and Tax Contracts, led the discussions. This agreement aims to foster direct investment, enhance economic ties, and promote transparency in tax practices between Tanzania and Iran. It is expected to be ratified by both countries’ legislative bodies soon.
Tanzania has been identified by Iran as one of the most strategic nations in East Africa for trade expansion. In late 2022, Iran’s Trade Promotion Organization (TPO) held its first exclusive exhibition in Dar es Salaam, showcasing Iranian products and services. Ra’ed Mousavi, head of the Iranian Trade Center in Tanzania, described the exhibition as a significant opportunity to increase East African awareness of Iranian innovations, particularly in agriculture, mining, industrial machinery, and medical equipment.
This growing economic partnership is part of Iran’s broader efforts to strengthen its presence in Africa, a continent it views as a key economic partner. Tanzania, with its strategic position in East Africa, is central to these efforts.