Tanzania to expand meat exports to Saudi Arabia
TANZANIA – Tanzania is planning to increase its meat exports to Saudi Arabia as demand for its products grows in the Middle Eastern market.
Over the past two years, the value of Tanzanian meat exports to Saudi Arabia has risen from US$6 million to US$12 million.
This surge has prompted trade discussions between the two nations, resulting in an agreement between the Tanzania Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (TCCIA) and the Federation of Saudi Chambers (FSC).
The agreement is expected to strengthen economic ties and facilitate trade, particularly in agriculture.
Tanzania’s livestock sector has been expanding, making it well-positioned to meet Saudi Arabia’s growing need for imported meat.
With a rising population and increasing consumer demand in Saudi Arabia, Tanzanian farmers and meat producers have an opportunity to scale up their production.
The country’s livestock industry benefits from favorable climatic conditions, vast grazing land, and a long history of livestock farming.
To support the expansion of meat exports, the Tanzanian government has committed to safeguarding investments in agriculture.
Authorities are also working to enhance infrastructure and provide farmers with the necessary resources to improve production and quality.
Growth in Meat Production and Export Volumes
Tanzania has recorded steady growth in meat production and exports over the last four years.
The increase has led to higher foreign exchange earnings and improved incomes for livestock farmers.
According to a report presented at the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Extraordinary General Meeting in Dodoma, meat exports grew from 1,669 tonnes in 2020 to 14,701 tonnes in 2024.
Revenue from the livestock sector has also increased, with foreign exchange earnings rising from US$2.5 million in 2021 to US$61.4 million in 2024.
The expansion of processing facilities has played a key role in this growth, with the number of meat processing plants increasing from three in 2020 to seven in 2024.
As Tanzania strengthens its presence in the Saudi market, stakeholders in the livestock sector are focusing on increasing production capacity while maintaining quality standards.
The partnership between TCCIA and FSC is expected to open more trade opportunities, allowing Tanzanian meat producers to further tap into the growing demand in the region.
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