Tanzania’s involvement in the global tapioca starch trade highlights its growing importance as both an exporter and importer. With notable export figures and a reliance on imports to meet domestic demand, the country showcases its potential for growth in the tapioca starch industry.
Exports
Tanzania, a country with growing significance in the global trade landscape, made its mark as the 45th largest exporter of tapioca starch in 2021. The total value of Tanzania’s tapioca starch exports reached $85.7k, highlighting the nation’s participation in the international tapioca starch market. Although tapioca starch ranked as the 798th most exported product from Tanzania in the same year, its export figures reveal a promising potential for future growth and market expansion.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo emerged as the primary destination for Tanzania’s tapioca starch exports, accounting for a significant share of the total export value at $81.3k. Other important destinations included Oman ($1.46k), Burundi ($1.24k), the United Arab Emirates ($602), and the United States ($484). These figures emphasize the importance of regional and international markets in driving Tanzania’s tapioca starch exports.
Between 2020 and 2021, Tanzania experienced notable growth in its export markets for tapioca starch. Notably, the Democratic Republic of the Congo witnessed a substantial increase of $15.7k, signifying a growing demand for Tanzanian tapioca starch in the neighboring country. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates saw an increase of $602, while the United States contributed an extra $484, further highlighting the expanding reach of Tanzanian exports.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Burundi | 1,239 |
| Africa | Botswana | 149 |
| Africa | Democratic Republic of the Congo | 81,297 |
| Africa | Zambia | 255 |
| Asia | United Arab Emirates | 602 |
| Asia | China | 70 |
| Asia | India | 21 |
| Asia | Oman | 1,464 |
| Europe | United Kingdom | 109 |
| Europe | Montenegro | 23 |
| North America | United States | 484 |
Imports
In 2021, Tanzania imported $110k worth of tapioca starch, securing the 84th position among the largest global importers of the product. Although tapioca starch ranked as the 2512th most imported product in Tanzania during the same year, the import data underscores the country’s reliance on foreign sources to fulfill domestic demand.
Egypt emerged as the leading supplier of tapioca starch to Tanzania, with imports totaling $55.5k. Vietnam followed closely behind with $36.1k, while Kenya contributed $18.5k, and Nigeria supplied $61 worth of the product. These countries played a crucial role in meeting Tanzania’s growing demand for tapioca starch.
Between 2020 and 2021, Tanzania experienced significant growth in its import markets for tapioca starch. Notably, Egypt witnessed a substantial surge of $55.5k, reflecting a strong reliance on Egyptian imports. Additionally, Kenya saw an increase of $18.5k, while Vietnam contributed an additional $12.9k to meet Tanzania’s expanding demand.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Egypt | 55,502 |
| Africa | Kenya | 18,534 |
| Africa | Nigeria | 61 |
| Asia | Vietnam | 36,062 |
Importing Tapioca Starch from Vietnam: A Reliable Partnership
Vietnam has emerged as a prominent supplier of tapioca starch to the Tanzania market. In 2021, the total value of tapioca starch imports from Vietnam amounted to an impressive $36,062. This significant figure indicates that Vietnam’s tapioca starch holds a strong position in the market and is poised to maintain its presence in Tanzania in the years to come. The reasons behind this sustained importation are primarily attributed to the product’s superior quality and competitive pricing.
Tanzania benefits from Vietnam’s tapioca starch exports, which provide a dependable supply of this vital ingredient. The substantial import value from Vietnam underscores Tanzania’s confidence in Vietnam as a trusted and preferred partner for fulfilling its tapioca starch requirements. With its consistent quality and competitive pricing, Vietnam’s tapioca starch has proven to be a reliable source that meets Tanzania’s demand for this essential product.
Tariffs
In 2018, Tanzania faced an average tariff rate of 9.42% on tapioca starch imports. Notably, several countries imposed high import tariffs on this product, including Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, and Cote d’Ivoire. These nations maintained a Most Favored Nation duty rate treatment, resulting in a significant 10% tariff on tapioca starch imports into Tanzania.
The presence of high import tariffs in these countries poses trade barriers and cost implications for Tanzania’s tapioca starch imports. Policymakers and stakeholders need to consider these tariffs when formulating import strategies and engaging in trade negotiations to ensure a balanced and sustainable market for tapioca starch in Tanzania.
Source: BACI and General Statistics Office of Vietnam