Tanzania reports increase in annual meat production
The annual output has risen to over 1 million tonnes as government targets Saudi Arabian market.
TANZANIA—Tanzania’s meat production reached 1,054,114.03 tonnes by February 2025, a growth from 963,856.55 tonnes recorded during the 2023/2024 financial period.
This increase in output has pushed the total value of meat produced from around US$2.95 billion (7.71 trillion Tanzanian shillings) to approximately US$3.23 billion (8.43 trillion Tanzanian shillings) over the same period.
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa presented the figures to Parliament in Dodoma on April 9, 2025, while delivering the proposed budget for his office and related institutions for the 2025/2026 financial year.
According to the Prime Minister, the higher production figures result from ongoing government efforts to strengthen the livestock industry.
He noted that in the coming year, the government intends to continue investing in the sector through various initiatives to improve conditions for livestock keepers.
These include expanding infrastructure for animal vaccination, controlling livestock diseases, and rehabilitating markets across the country to support trade and productivity.
In addition, plans are underway to construct modern slaughterhouses and establish model farms for pasture demonstration as part of broader efforts to enhance the sector’s efficiency.
The government is also prioritising the creation of employment and increased income through livestock-related activities, which it views as a key contributor to rural development.
Focus on meat exports to Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, Tanzania is looking to expand its meat export capacity, particularly targeting Saudi Arabia, where demand for imported meat continues to grow.
As of early 2025, the value of Tanzanian meat exports to Saudi Arabia doubled over two years, climbing from US$6 million to US$12 million.
This trade boost has led to formal discussions between Tanzanian and Saudi business groups, culminating in an agreement between the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA) and the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC).
The partnership is expected to support trade in agriculture and meat products between the two countries, paving the way for increased export volumes.
With Saudi Arabia’s rising population driving higher consumption, Tanzanian meat producers are encouraged to increase production capacity to meet the new demand.
Government authorities say they are committed to supporting the industry by improving logistics, infrastructure, and access to farming resources to help meet international market standards.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
