On Friday, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan officially inaugurated the East African Commercial and Logistics Centre in Dar es Salaam, marking a significant milestone in the country’s ambition to become a regional trade and logistics powerhouse.
The newly launched centre is poised to transform trade dynamics within the East African Community (EAC) by serving as a centralized hub for businesses, transportation, and logistics services. Strategically located in Tanzania’s economic capital, the facility is expected to significantly enhance regional trade and improve logistics efficiency across member states.
During the inauguration ceremony, President Suluhu underscored the centre’s vital role in accelerating economic growth and attracting both domestic and foreign investment. She emphasized that the facility will not only streamline customs procedures but also simplify market access for exporters across the region.
“This centre is a symbol of our commitment to regional integration and economic transformation,” said President Suluhu. “By improving logistics and reducing trade barriers, we are creating new opportunities for Tanzanian businesses and our East African neighbors.”
Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced technology, the East African Commercial and Logistics Centre is designed to minimize transit times and cut transportation costs for goods moving within and beyond the region. The centre includes bonded warehouses, cargo handling facilities, integrated ICT systems, and one-stop customs services — all aimed at supporting faster and more efficient trade flows.
The launch of the centre aligns with broader regional goals outlined by the EAC, which seeks to deepen economic integration, harmonize trade policies, and promote cross-border collaboration among its member states.
The inauguration ceremony drew a diverse group of dignitaries, including senior government officials, regional business leaders, diplomats, and EAC representatives. Many expressed optimism that the initiative would bolster Tanzania’s strategic role as a gateway to East and Central Africa, especially for landlocked countries like Rwanda, Uganda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Experts say the centre could also serve as a model for other regions looking to improve intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
As Tanzania continues to invest in infrastructure, digitization, and public-private partnerships, the East African Commercial and Logistics Centre is expected to play a pivotal role in unlocking trade potential and supporting inclusive economic development across the region.
