Book and Go
Latest features
Tanzania: Doing business & staying in touch
Doing business in Tanzania
Business culture in Tanzania tends to be formal, relationship-driven and influenced by both African and British traditions. Hierarchy is respected, and senior figures are usually addressed by their title and surname unless invited to do otherwise. Initial meetings often begin with polite conversation before moving to business matters, and building trust is considered important before decisions are finalised.
Punctuality is appreciated, particularly in government and corporate settings, though meetings may not always start exactly on time. It is advisable to confirm appointments in advance and to be patient if schedules shift. Decision-making can take time, especially where approval from senior management or officials is required.
A handshake is the standard greeting in professional contexts. It is courteous to wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Exchanging business cards is common, and cards should be treated with respect. Dress is generally conservative and professional, particularly in formal meetings; suits or smart business attire are appropriate in cities such as Dar es Salaam and Dodoma.
Communication style is typically polite and measured. Direct confrontation is avoided, and disagreements are often expressed diplomatically. Written follow-up after meetings is advisable, as it helps clarify agreed points and next steps.
During Ramadan, working hours may be adjusted, and meetings may be shorter or scheduled earlier in the day. Awareness of religious holidays and public holidays is important when arranging business travel.
Tanzania has one of the largest and most diverse economies in East Africa, underpinned by agriculture, mining, tourism and a growing services sector. Agriculture remains a major employer, with crops such as coffee, tea, cashew nuts, cotton and tobacco forming key exports. The country is also known for cloves from Zanzibar and horticultural produce destined for regional and international markets.
Mining plays an important role, particularly gold, which is one of Tanzania's leading export earners. The country also has deposits of diamonds, tanzanite and other minerals, alongside natural gas resources that contribute to industrial development and energy supply.
Tourism is a central pillar of the economy, driven by wildlife safaris, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and numerous national parks and conservation areas. The sector supports transport, hospitality, construction and a wide range of small and medium-sized enterprises across the country.
In recent years, infrastructure development has been a key focus, with investment in roads, railways, ports and energy projects aimed at strengthening regional trade links. Dar es Salaam functions as a major commercial hub and port for landlocked neighbouring countries, enhancing Tanzania's role in regional commerce.
While urban centres are expanding and industrial activity is growing, a significant proportion of the population remains engaged in subsistence farming and the informal sector. The government continues efforts to diversify the economy, improve investment conditions and expand manufacturing, positioning Tanzania as an increasingly important player in East Africa.
Gold, coffee, cashew nuts, tobacco, cotton, cloves, natural gas, and precious stones including tanzanite.
Petroleum products, machinery and transport equipment, motor vehicles, industrial goods, chemicals, and manufactured consumer goods.
Keeping in Touch in Tanzania
Mobile phone coverage in Tanzania is generally good in cities, towns and along major roads, but it can be limited or unreliable in remote areas, particularly in national parks and rural regions. Signal strength may vary depending on terrain, with weaker coverage in mountainous or sparsely populated areas.
The main mobile network providers are Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo and Halotel. Visitors can easily purchase prepaid SIM cards at airports, official retail outlets and mobile shops in major towns. Registration is required and a passport must be presented. Data packages are widely available and are relatively affordable.
Wi-Fi is available in Tanzania, particularly in major cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Dodoma, as well as in tourist areas including Zanzibar and safari lodges. Most mid-range and higher-end hotels, cafés and restaurants offer Wi-Fi access, often free for customers.
However, speeds and reliability can vary considerably. Connections in urban areas are generally adequate for messaging, emails and light browsing, but may be slower during peak times. In more remote locations, especially within national parks and rural regions, Wi-Fi may be limited, intermittent or unavailable altogether.
Many safari lodges provide Wi-Fi in main communal areas rather than in individual rooms, and connectivity may depend on satellite links. Visitors who require consistent internet access may find it more reliable to use mobile data with a local SIM card, particularly in populated areas.
Tanzania has a diverse media landscape that includes television, radio, newspapers and online platforms. Both state-owned and private media outlets operate in the country, with content available in Swahili and English. The national broadcaster, the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC), provides television and radio services, while private stations offer a mix of news, entertainment and international programming.
Radio remains one of the most widely used forms of media, particularly outside major cities, and is an important source of news and information for local communities. In urban areas, television and digital media are more prominent, with increasing access to online news through smartphones and mobile data.
Newspapers are published in both Swahili and English, though print readership is more limited compared to radio and online sources. English-language publications are generally aimed at urban readers, expatriates and business communities.
Visitors should be aware that media content is subject to regulation, and reporting on political matters can be sensitive. International news channels are commonly available in hotels and through satellite television, providing alternative sources of information.
You know where