Tanzania bans agricultural products trade with Malawi, South Africa

By Osoro Nyawangah, DODOMA Tanzania

Tanzania government has officially imposed a reciprocal trade ban on agricultural products from Malawi and South Africa, escalating a standoff that began with restrictions placed on Tanzanian exports by the two southern African nations.

The decision, announced on Wednesday, April 23 by Minister of Agriculture, Hussein Bashe (pictured above), follows the failure of Malawi and South Africa to lift their embargoes on Tanzanian produce particularly a consignment of bananas blocked last week.

“The government has taken those measures to protect the interests of Tanzanian farmers and businessmen following the decision by the named countries of prohibiting entrance of agricultural products from Tanzania.” Bashe said.

“Starting today, April 23, 2025, all agricultural products from Malawi and South Africa are prohibited from entering the country. Agricultural products from those countries are also prohibited from entering the United Republic of Tanzania.”

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The minister further affirmed that Tanzania government will not release the 'hunger program' maize grain purchased by Malawi government and purchase or transportation of fertilizer to Malawi.

He said no fresh apples, grapes, other fruits or any agricultural products from South Africa and all agricultural products from Malawi shall be allowed into or on transit through Tanzania.

He reassured Tanzanians that the decision does not pose any threat to national food security.

"No Tanzanian will die for lack of grapes or South African apples. This is a matter of protecting our business. This is trade, and mutual respect is non-negotiable." He said firmly.

The situation marks a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two neighbouring countries, raising concerns about the future of regional integration under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) framework.