Tanzania made a notable appearance at the 46th Kano International Trade Fair, drawing the attention of traders, investors, and visitors with a wide range of its agricultural and manufactured products. The annual fair, which ran from November 22 to December 6 at the Aminu Dantata Trade Fair Complex in Kano, was organised by the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture and is one of Nigeria’s biggest platforms for regional and international trade.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the United Republic of Tanzania High Commission in Abuja said the country showcased products for which it is globally recognised, including premium coffee, tea, spices, sisal and leather goods. These products attracted strong interest from participants at the fair, with many seeking opportunities for trade partnerships and import arrangements.
Tanzania’s display included Arabica and Robusta coffee, multiple tea varieties, and spices popularly used in both traditional medicine and cuisine. These items are already familiar to Nigerian consumers, making the Nigerian market a natural growth area for Tanzanian exports. Tanzania exports these commodities to Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, and officials say demand continues to grow as consumers look for high-quality organic and naturally processed agricultural goods.
According to the High Commission, the interest shown by Nigerian buyers at the trade fair reflects a positive trend in Tanzania’s effort to deepen its trade relationship with Nigeria, which remains one of Africa’s largest consumer markets. Officials said Tanzania is positioning itself to take advantage of Nigeria’s large population, expanding retail sector and rising preference for premium food and agricultural products.
The statement also highlighted one of the major steps improving cooperation between both countries — the recent launch of direct flights by Air Tanzania between Dar es Salaam and Lagos. The airline now operates three flights a week, significantly boosting travel for business, trade and tourism. Stakeholders say the improved connectivity has reduced business travel time, encouraged easier movement of goods and strengthened personal and corporate partnerships between Nigerians and Tanzanians.
Officials from the High Commission noted that relations between both countries have steadily improved in recent years, with increased discussions around cooperation in agriculture, aviation, manufacturing, trade promotion and investment. They added that with the growing populations of both nations and the many untapped economic opportunities available, stronger partnerships will benefit businesses and consumers on both sides.
Tanzania’s participation in the Kano fair was seen as a deliberate step to promote its products directly to Nigerian businesses and buyers. Traders at the fair were able to sample Tanzanian coffee and tea, examine leather products, and learn more about exporting and distribution channels. Some exhibitors from Tanzania also held business-to-business meetings with Nigerian distributors, retailers and manufacturers interested in import partnerships.
The High Commission encouraged those seeking more information about Tanzanian export opportunities to explore the official websites of the Tea Board of Tanzania, the Tanzania Coffee Board and the Cereals and Other Produce Board. These platforms, it said, provide details on product quality, export standards, pricing, and opportunities for collaboration with Tanzanian producers.
Tanzania’s showing at the trade fair reinforced its commitment to expanding economic opportunities across Africa and building stronger trade relationships with Nigeria. Many participants described the country’s presence as impressive and said they expect to see more Tanzanian products on Nigerian shelves in the coming years.
