DAR ES SALAAM: THE country’s premier trade exhibition is entering a new era, with organisers seeking to transform the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair from a traditional product showcase into a platform for business deals, investment partnerships and expanded market access.
The 50th edition of the annual exhibition, popularly known as Sabasaba, will attract more than 3,000 exhibitors as Tanzania seeks to connect local producers with regional and international buyers.
The Director General of Tanzania Trade Development Authority (TanTrade), Dr Latifa Khamis, told the `Daily News’ that the growing participation of companies from within and outside the country reflects increasing interest in Tanzania’s commercial opportunities.
“The increasing participation demonstrates growing confidence in Tanzania as a destination for trade and investment,” Dr Khamis said.
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The exhibition, which opens on June 28, will feature 2,776 local companies and 258 international firms from 23 countries showcasing products, services and investment opportunities across different sectors.
Dr Khamis said the focus is shifting beyond exhibition displays towards creating business linkages that enable local firms to access new customers, partnerships and export markets.
The event will also promote products under the ‘Made in Tanzania’ campaign, which aims to strengthen the competitiveness and visibility of locally manufactured goods.
Temeke District Commissioner Sixtus Mapunda said the 50-year milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on the role Sabasaba has played in supporting trade, industry and investment promotion.