Invest in Tanzania’s pharmaceutical sector

To invest in Tanzania’s pharmaceutical sector, you can explore a range of opportunities supported by the government and aligned with the country's health and industrial growth strategies.

Key Investment Opportunities:

1. Manufacturing of Medical Supplies: There is a growing demand for medical equipment, including human medicine, injections, gloves, lab equipment, medical clothing, and cosmetics. The government has emphasized reducing reliance on imported medicines, which creates a gap in domestic production.
2. Pharmaceutical Production: The production of medicines locally is a prime opportunity. The market is gradually increasing its capacity to meet domestic and regional needs, making Tanzania a strategic location for pharmaceutical manufacturing targeting East and Central Africa.
3. Medical Equipment: With the country’s focus on health infrastructure, there’s room for the development of facilities producing medical devices and equipment, such as diagnostic machines, laboratory tools, and related products.
4. Market Growth: The pharmaceutical sector in Tanzania has seen impressive growth, with a market size reaching over $450 million by 2017, and it continues to expand. This growth has been spurred by government support and trade agreements within the East African Community.

Support and Regulations:

• Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA): Tanzania offers incentives for pharmaceutical manufacturing within Export Processing Zones (EPZs), where companies benefit from tax exemptions and streamlined processes for setting up operations​
• Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC): TIC plays a crucial role in assisting investors by providing regulatory guidance, facilitating approvals, and offering information on available incentives​

Steps to Invest:

1. Register with TIC: Start by registering your business with the Tanzania Investment Centre to gain access to government support.
2. Obtain Licenses: You will need to secure a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) license or an EPZ license for pharmaceutical manufacturing​
3. Establish a Facility: Choose an appropriate location within an SEZ for your manufacturing plant.
4. Collaborate with Local Partners: Building relationships with local businesses or government agencies can facilitate market entry.