Tanzania Launches Direct Cargo Flights to China, Revolutionizing Horticultural Exports
Air Tanzania has initiated groundbreaking direct cargo flights to Guangzhou, marking a transformative moment for the country’s horticultural industry. The inaugural flight, launched on January 12, 2025, represents a strategic breakthrough in international trade connectivity.
The Boeing 767 freighter, with an impressive 54-tonne capacity and ability to fly up to 10 hours without refueling, promises to be a game-changing logistics solution for Tanzanian exporters. This development directly supports the national strategy to expand horticultural export value from $420 million to $2 billion annually by 2030.
Key highlights of this milestone include:
– Unprecedented direct air connection to the Chinese market
– Reduced transportation time from 22 days (sea route) to just one day
– Potential to access China’s massive $174 million market
– Significant opportunities for avocado farmers and exporters
The cargo flights come after receiving approval from China’s Civil Aviation Administration, following a historic first container of organic avocados arriving in China in November 2024. This development is expected to create substantial employment opportunities for youth and women in the agricultural value chain.
With China being the 10th leading global avocado importer and boasting a population of over 1.4 billion, this initiative opens unprecedented market potential for Tanzanian farmers. The direct flights will enable faster, fresher product delivery, potentially transforming the country’s agricultural export landscape.
The strategic move aligns perfectly with national efforts to develop agriculture as a key economic driver, positioning Tanzania to become a significant player in the global horticultural market.
