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Tanzania’s Natural Honey Supply: A Lucrative Investment Opportunity

  • Writer: Joseph Magweiga Marwa
    Joseph Magweiga Marwa
  • Dec 25, 2024
  • 3 min read

Tanzania is one of Africa’s leading producers of natural honey, offering high-quality and organic products. The country’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from forests to savannahs, provide an ideal environment for beekeeping, which supports a robust honey production industry. Tanzania’s natural honey sector presents numerous opportunities for investors, exporters, and entrepreneurs.



1. Overview of Tanzania’s Honey Industry

Tanzania produces an estimated 34,000 metric tons of honey annually, with the potential to increase production to over 138,000 metric tons. The country's honey is highly sought after for its organic and unadulterated quality, making it a premium product in global markets.


Key Honey-Producing Regions

  • Tabora: The leading honey-producing region, accounting for nearly 60% of national production.

  • Singida: Known for its distinctive flavor profiles.

  • Manyara, Iringa, and Dodoma: Secondary producers contributing significantly to the national output.


2. Regulatory Framework

Tanzania’s honey production and trade are regulated by the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism. The government ensures that honey production aligns with environmental conservation and adheres to international quality standards.


Key Regulations

  • Certification for export: Honey must meet the standards set by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS).

  • Adherence to international requirements, such as the EU Regulation (EC) No 834/2007 for organic honey exports.


3. Market Opportunities

3.1 Local Market

  • The growing demand for honey in Tanzania is driven by its use in households, hotels, and the pharmaceutical industry.

  • Beekeeping provides livelihood opportunities for over 2 million Tanzanians, supporting rural economies.


3.2 International Market

  • Major export destinations include Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.

  • Organic and natural honey from Tanzania fetches premium prices in international markets due to its high quality.


4. Benefits of Investing in Tanzania’s Honey Industry

  1. High Demand: The global market for natural honey is growing at a CAGR of 6%, driven by health-conscious consumers.

  2. Favorable Climate: Tanzania’s varied ecosystems support year-round beekeeping.

  3. Export Potential: Tanzania’s honey is increasingly recognized in international markets, particularly for its organic quality.

  4. Government Support: The Tanzanian government provides incentives for beekeeping projects and honey exports.


5. Investment Opportunities

5.1 Beekeeping

  • Invest in apiaries (bee farms) in high-yield regions such as Tabora and Singida.

  • Utilize modern beekeeping techniques to enhance productivity.


5.2 Honey Processing

  • Establish honey extraction and processing plants to produce premium products.

  • Produce value-added products such as beeswax, propolis, royal jelly, and pollen.


5.3 Export

  • Leverage Tanzania’s organic certification to access high-value markets in Europe and the U.S.


6. Challenges and Solutions

Challenge

Solution

Inadequate modern beekeeping techniques

Train beekeepers in advanced practices and technologies.

Limited market access

Collaborate with export agencies to penetrate global markets.

Pests and diseases affecting hives

Invest in pest control and hive management solutions.

7. Fees for Honey Export and Beekeeping Licenses

Service

Fee

Beekeeping License Application

TZS 50,000

Export Permit for Honey

TZS 100,000

Certification by Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)

TZS 200,000

8. Steps to Start Honey Production in Tanzania

  1. Register Your Business:

    • Register with BRELA for a legal entity.

  2. Acquire Licenses:

    • Obtain a beekeeping license and export permit.

  3. Set Up Infrastructure:

    • Establish apiaries in suitable regions and invest in modern equipment.

  4. Certify Products:

    • Work with TBS for quality certification.

  5. Explore Markets:

    • Partner with distributors for local and international sales.


Conclusion

Tanzania’s honey industry is a high-potential sector for investors. With abundant natural resources, favorable government policies, and access to global markets, the country offers a competitive edge in honey production and export. By investing in this sector, you can contribute to sustainable development while tapping into a profitable market.


Contact for Investment Assistance

For guidance on entering Tanzania’s honey industry, contact:

  • Phone: +255 747 912 965

  • WhatsApp: +255 759 551 592

  • Email: sales@zatra.co

  • Office Address: Sinza A, Sam Nujoma Road, First Floor, Mwenge Tower, Opposite Mlimani City Shopping Mall, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.


 
 
 

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