Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)

The government has called on producers to prioritize quality standards as a key strategy to enhance the competitiveness of locally-made products in domestic and global markets.
Speaking at the World Quality Day celebrations in Dar es Salaam, the Minister of Industry and Trade, Dr Suleiman Jafo, commended the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) for being recognised as Africa’s leading quality standards body.
“Our products can only compete in local and global markets if they meet quality standards,” he said.
Dr Jafo praised TBS for its role in upholding standards and recognized companies excelling in quality enhancement, stating that their achievements demonstrate the value of self-promotion and commitment to excellence.
He noted Tanzania’s vast opportunities, with a population exceeding 62 million, and its membership in regional blocs like the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“By maintaining quality, our products become competitive in regional and international markets, including Europe, India, and China,” Dr Jafo emphasized.
The minister also highlighted that TBS initiatives have enabled local companies to improve their standards and access wider markets, adding that Tanzania is highly regarded for producing internationally compliant products.
“Producers must ensure their production adheres to standards to add value to our products for global markets while doing justice to our nation and consumers,” he urged.
TBS Director, Ms. Ashura Katunzi, explained that World Quality Day celebrations align with Quality Week, observed every November, during which TBS educates the public on quality issues.
This year’s theme, ‘From Compliance to Performance,’ underscores the importance of going beyond adherence to standards by implementing them in every aspect of business operations.
Ms Katunzi praised the government’s efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration in building a competitive industrial and trade sector, enabling local products to compete globally.
“These efforts ensure that our products and services remain competitive, especially when products from other countries are allowed into our markets,” she said.
The event included the presentation of national quality awards to winners of the 2024 fifth season, celebrating excellence in quality adherence and innovation.