Traders assured of inclusion in Chinese-built business centre
What you need to know:
- The new centre features over 2,000 shops, laboratory facilities, office spaces for lease, and ample parking—designed to serve both local and international businesses
Dar es Salaam. The government has moved to reassure Tanzanian traders that the new East Africa Commercial and Logistics Centre, developed through a partnership with Chinese investors, will not displace local businesses but will instead offer expanded commercial opportunities.
The modern facility—set to be officially launched by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on August 1, 2025—is located at the former Ubungo bus terminal and represents a collaboration between the Ubungo Municipal Council, the central government and Chinese investors.
Speaking yesterday during a media briefing ahead of the launch, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila said the centre underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging public-private partnerships to deliver economic value and improve business infrastructure.
“This initiative follows earlier successful models such as the redevelopment of the former DDC area in Kariakoo and the establishment of Mlimani City by the University of Dar es Salaam,” said Mr Chalamila.
He explained that the logistics hub was conceived after the Ubungo terminal was relocated to Mbezi Magufuli, with the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) subsequently engaging an investor to redevelop the site into a multi-use facility.
The new centre features over 2,000 shops, laboratory facilities, office spaces for lease, and ample parking—designed to serve both local and international businesses.
“The government encourages local entrepreneurs and foreign investors to tap into the vast opportunities this facility presents,” Mr Chalamila said. “This centre is part of our broader efforts to drive economic growth and foster a business-friendly environment.”
According to media reports, the East Africa Commercial and Logistics Centre is designed to function as a comprehensive one-stop hub. It will host logistics companies, banks, customs and tax offices to support streamlined import-export operations.
Its integrated approach aims to facilitate bulk purchasing and e-commerce by enabling Tanzanian traders to source products directly from Chinese and international suppliers, potentially reducing import costs and saving on foreign currency.
In addition to supporting domestic trade, the centre is expected to boost Tanzania’s semi-industrialisation drive by 2025 through increased exports of local goods and enhanced two-way trade with neighbouring markets such as Rwanda and Burundi.
