DAR ES SALAAM — Tanzania’s import bill has risen sharply over the past year, with higher petroleum and freight payments adding pressure to businesses that depend on imported goods, equipment and raw materials.
Payments for imported goods and services increased from US$18.63 billion to US21.27 billion in the year ending August 2026, according to Bank of Tanzania data reported by The Citizen.
Freight payments accounted for a significant part of the increase, reaching US$1.68 billion, up from US$1.30 billion a year earlier.
The rise comes as international shipping costs remain under pressure from disruptions affecting major global trade routes, while higher oil prices have also increased the cost of moving goods.
For Tanzanian businesses, the increase has implications beyond the national import bill.
Higher freight costs can tie up more working capital for importers, reduce the volume of stock businesses can purchase and eventually increase prices for customers.
Businesses dealing in electronics, construction equipment and other imported products have reported higher transportation costs, according to the Tanzania National Chamber of Commerce.
Petroleum imports have also increased significantly, reaching US$3.43 billion in the year ending August, compared with US$2.26 billion during the corresponding period in 2025.
The Bank of Tanzania attributed part of the increase to higher global oil prices linked to geopolitical tensions.
The pressure is being felt throughout the wider supply chain, from shipping and clearing to trucking, wholesale and retail.
For businesses, however, the situation could also strengthen the case for more resilient and locally integrated supply chains.
Higher import costs can improve the commercial case for Tanzanian companies capable of producing, processing or supplying goods that would otherwise need to be imported.
The development also highlights opportunities in logistics, warehousing, local manufacturing, supply-chain management and domestic sourcing, particularly for businesses looking to reduce exposure to international freight costs.
As Tanzania’s import bill continues to expand, the ability to manage supply chains efficiently is becoming an increasingly important part of business competitiveness.
