The government of Tanzania has halted the development of Kurasini Trade and Logistic Center. The move is set to put more concentration on expansion of the congested Dar es Salaam port.
The project worth USD 30 million was to be implemented by the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA). It was to be developed on a regular lease agreement. The objectives for the establishment of the Kurasini Industrial, Trade and Logistic Park are to attract manufactures to establish light industries as well as to relocate manufacturing enterprises into Tanzania.
Kurasini Trade and Logistic Center
Once completed, Kurasini Trade and Logistic Center was to provide a one-stop centre for investors’ facilitation, warehouses of international standard and availability of high-tech equipment. The project was meant to serve as a center for enhancing Tanzania’s important agricultural goods before export. An agro-processing facilities (storage and value addition platform) production facilities for assembly facilities for electronic goods, machinery, vehicles equipment and other consumables was to be set up.
The first phase involved erecting a fence and infrastructure. According to Mr. Exaud Kigahe, the deputy minister for investment, trade, and industry, if the government proceeded to build the Kurasini Trade and Logistics Center, the already congested Dar port would worsen.
Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) data, reports that cargo handled via the Dar es Salaam port rose by 21.4 percent in the previous four years. The Dar port handled 17 million metric tons (MT) in 2021. This is an improvement from 14 million tons in 2017. The improvement came due to expanded capacity, marketing efforts, recovery from COVID-19, and also a supportive business environment.