The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) Western Region has called on producers, traders, and citizens to take advantage of product quality certification to access the rapidly growing East African market. Speaking at the Lake Tanganyika Expo 2026 in Kigoma, TBS Western Region Manager Hamisi Seleleko said the region covers three districts: Kigoma, Katavi, and Tabora. The expo, which started on September 16, will conclude on September 22, 2026.
Seleleko stated that TBS's primary objective at the expo is to promote various services offered by the bureau and to educate entrepreneurs and producers about the opportunities available through product quality certification. He noted that certification enables producers to export their products to the domestic market and to member states of the East African Community, which currently comprises eight countries. TBS has set up a special desk to provide prompt services to visitors, including registration of products, education, and certification of food and cosmetics.
According to Seleleko, product registration is a fundamental requirement that guarantees the safety of products for public consumption. TBS also provides education on prohibited products and showcases examples of substandard cosmetics and hazardous products that have been banned. This aims to prevent health risks associated with the use of uncertified products. The bureau urges all producers to utilize the expo opportunity to submit their applications online and meet the necessary criteria.
Producers who meet the required standards will have their production sites inspected by TBS officials, who will also verify their products and issue quality certification. This enables them to use the quality mark and access wider markets. Seleleko encouraged producers to take advantage of the expo to learn about the certification process and the benefits it offers. By certifying their products, producers can increase their competitiveness in the regional market.
The Lake Tanganyika Expo 2026 provides a platform for producers and traders to showcase their products and services. TBS's participation in the expo is an effort to raise awareness about the importance of product quality certification and to encourage producers to adopt best practices. The bureau's services, including product registration and certification, are essential for ensuring that products meet international standards.
The East African market offers significant opportunities for Tanzanian producers, and product quality certification is a critical factor in accessing this market. By certifying their products, producers can demonstrate their commitment to quality and safety, which can lead to increased customer trust and loyalty. TBS's efforts to promote product quality certification are expected to boost Tanzania's exports and contribute to the country's economic growth.
In conclusion, TBS's initiative to promote product quality certification in Western Tanzania is a step towards enhancing the competitiveness of local producers in the regional market. By taking advantage of the certification process, producers can increase their access to new markets, improve their products' quality and safety, and contribute to the country's economic development. The bureau's participation in the Lake Tanganyika Expo 2026 has provided a valuable opportunity for producers to learn about the certification process and its benefits.
Key points
- TBS urges producers in Western Tanzania to certify product quality for access to East African markets.
