Crackdown launched on foreign traders using Tanzanian IDs

Many of these individuals are also accused of evading taxes and leaving behind significant debts in the names of the Tanzanians whose identities they assumed.

In response, the minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, has called for urgent policy reforms to protect the local business environment from what he described as foreign exploitation.

“Our team has presented a report highlighting serious concerns, including the misuse of Tanzanian citizens’ credentials by foreigners who are now dominating the local business sector,” said Dr Jafo during a meeting with the investigative committee. 

He added that some foreign nationals were found to be operating across the entire business value chain—from production to distribution—often without proper documentation or under work permits that do not reflect their actual activities.

“Foreigners are hiding in warehouses without permits, and others with permits meant for professions such as engineering are instead engaging in retail trade,” he said. “This is unacceptable.”

The committee, formed on February 2, submitted its final report on March 17. Based on its recommendations, several corrective measures are already underway. 

The Immigration Department has launched a special operation targeting illegal foreign traders. As of now, 7,900 foreigners without valid permits have been apprehended. 

Of these, 4,796 have been deported, 703 fined, and 257 later presented valid documentation.

In parallel, the Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA) has intensified efforts to restrict foreigners from engaging in business activities legally reserved for Tanzanians.

The agency is also investigating businesses that appear to be locally owned but are operated by foreign nationals.

Dr Jafo also conducted a field visit to Kariakoo, where he expressed frustration over the continuing presence of foreign traders operating without the necessary documents. “I am not satisfied with this situation,” he said. 

“Despite claims that the issue has been addressed, there are still foreign individuals operating without permits and others misusing work permits. This raises serious concerns of vested interests.”

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila echoed the minister’s concerns, singling out an increasing number of Chinese nationals allegedly using Tanzanian names to register businesses.

He warned that such practices are undermining opportunities for local entrepreneurs, many of whom lack the financial strength to compete. 

Authorities have identified 62 foreigners operating illegally in Kariakoo alone. The government intends to use the findings from this case as a benchmark to clean up other trading zones and reinforce a transparent and equitable business environment.

Deputy permanent secretary in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Dr Suleiman Serera, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of both Tanzanian traders and lawful foreign investors. 

The chairman of the National Traders’ Association (JWT), Mr Hamis Livembe, voiced concerns that some foreign traders operating in central markets possess disproportionately large capital reserves, thereby distorting fair competition.