Tanzania has taken a significant step forward by exporting its first shipment of honey to China, one of the world's largest markets. The shipment, which consists of 10 metric tons of honey, marks not only the dawn of new international trade relations but also highlights the vast potential of Tanzania's beekeeping industry.
On Wednesday, the honey was officially despatched from Dar es Salaam Port, set for Weihai Port where it is expected to arrive within 27 days. Dr. Lisa Wang Xiangyun, chairperson of the East Africa Commercial and Logistics Center (EACLC), expressed enthusiasm over this inaugural shipment at the company's facilities. "The successful export of this batch of honey not only delivers natural and healthy products to Chinese consumers but also opens up new opportunities for the growth of Tanzania's honey industry," she stated.
Industry and Trade Minister Selemani Jafo took part in the flag-off ceremony and emphasized the importance of the event, saying, "This is not just about exporting honey; it’s about realizing economic growth and strengthening international partnerships. We are opening a significant market... It’s time for Tanzania to fully seize the opportunities in China and beyond."
Tanzania ranks second on the African continent and 14th globally for honey production. The country can produce approximately 138,000 tonnes of honey annually; yet, actual production stands at about 31,179 tonnes, which is only 22% of its potential. This underutilization reflects the sector’s challenges, particularly when it come to accessing international markets.
The recent shipment was made possible through Tanzania’s participation at the seventh China International Import Expo last month, showcasing Tanzanian products on an international stage. Jackson Mponela, production manager of Tanzania Future Enterprises Company Limited, regards this as transformative: "This is a game-changer for our industry. China’s trust in our honey opens up opportunities for us to showcase our products on a global stage."
Quality standards and packaging have historically posed hurdles for Tanzanian honey producers aiming for international appeal. Mponela pointed out, "We often use plastic bottles, but international markets prefer glass packaging, which is more expensive. It’s an area we need to address to improve our competitiveness."
One of Tanzania’s unique advantages lies in its production of organic honey derived from forest reserves. Over 90% of the beekeeping activities occur within these pristine environments. Karim Solyambingu, senior conservation officer of the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS), shared how they facilitate local beekeeping: "We allow individuals without land to keep bees in forest reserves free of charge. This initiative aims to boost honey production and contributes to environmental conservation."
To uphold quality, TFS collaborates with quality assurance bodies to send honey samples for certification at international laboratories, ensuring they meet global standards. The agency is committed to enhancing Tanzania’s honey exports by focusing on quality assurance as highlighted by Solyambingu.
Many countries excel at honey exports, such as New Zealand and Argentina, by consistently maintaining high quality, innovative processing technologies, and strategic marketing. Investing in modern processing facilities is part of Tanzania's future plans, as the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism is currently constructing five modern honey processing factories across the country.
An agricultural economist, Jane Makala, is optimistic about the balance of economic growth and environmental sustainability. She believes the Chinese market can significantly boost Tanzania's beekeeping, stating, "This is an opportunity to diversify our export portfolio. To succeed, we must address challenges like inadequate infrastructure and limited awareness among beekeepers about international standards."
Makala also underscored the environmental benefits of beekeeping, mentioning, "Beekeeping promotes forest conservation. By tapping international market opportunities, we encourage sustainable practices, which will benefit both the economy and the environment."
Overall, Tanzania's growing trade relationship with China, exemplified by this honey export, symbolizes broader economic strategies aimed at embracing international markets. It reflects enhanced collaboration, economic ambition, and the potential for sustainable growth within Tanzania's agricultural sectors.
