TANZANIA'S economic exchange with France showcases a steady export average of US$25.122 million annually, contrasted with an import influx totaling US$75.418 million each year over the past five years.

Exaud Kigahe, Deputy Minister for Industries and Trade made the assertion in Dar es Salaam today during the second French Tanzania Business forum dubbed: ‘Strengthening Economic Ties Between France and Tanzania.’

He said the Tanzania-France trade area is committed to creating a conducive environment for business and investment in Tanzania. The initiatives that paves the way for increased trade and investment that benefits the economy of both parties.

“On the account of trade, data shows that trade flows have been in favor of France for the past five years (2019-2023). Tanzania exports to France are of the average of $ 25.122 million per year and the imports are of the average of $75.418 million per year,” he said.

He added: “On our part major exports to France include coal, tobacco, cotton, locust beans, sea products (frozen fish, fish fillets, shrimps, prawns, octopus) , dried leguminous vegetables, coffee and fresh or dried vegetables.”

According to him, the major imports from France include grape wine, petroleum products, dishwashing machines, electrical machines, medicaments, prefabricated buildings, helicopters spare parts, sugar, aircraft engines and animal feeds machineries.

Coupled with that, he also said that Tanzania’s  participation on the forum aims at portraying President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s assurance that Tanzania has been taking tremendous efforts in addressing challenges facing investors and by opening up new avenues that will make current and prosperous investors reap their rewards.

He also encouraged French companies to participate in the coming 48th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair which is the largest event in East Africa that attracts more than 500 foreign companies annually to showcase their advanced technologies including machineries for processing leather and leather products.

“I went through the programme and found that the Forum is a tailor-made sort of that allows for diverse engagement. With such diversity, especially the interactive nature of the forum with Tanzania ministers. I am confident that participants will have a fruitful and in-depth exchange of issues that are crucial for both parties,” he stressed.

Nabil Hajlaoui, French Ambassador to Tanzania emphasized the long-standing friendship between France and Tanzania.

“This forum exemplifies our commitment to deepening the bilateral relations between our two nations. Through collaborative efforts, we can drive sustainable development and create lasting economic benefits for both countries,” he stated.

He also stated that the recent President Samia’s state visit in Paris, France during the high-level cooking Clean Cooking Summit was a declaration on specific partnership with Tanzania particularly on agriculture and sustainable energy.

Philippe Labonne, Chairman of the Africa Committee of Mouvement des entreprises de France (MEDEF) said the collaboration between French and Tanzanian businesses is crucial for addressing global challenges such as energy transition and urbanization as he believed that by working together, they can develop sustainable solutions that will enhance the quality of life and economic resilience in both nations.

During a landmark summit on Clean Cooking in Africa held recently in Paris, President Samia Suluhu Hassan urged for a substantial replenishment of the African Development Fund to ensure adequate resources for clean cooking in Africa's low-income countries, with the African Development Bank (AfDB) committing $2 billion in support.

The 2nd French Tanzania business forum promises to be a landmark event driving forward the economic agenda of both nations. It represents a unique opportunity for businesses to engage in a meaningful dialogue and explore new avenues.