Zanzibar Private Sector Highlights Inclusive Trade as Key to Sustainable Economic Growth

Unguja. Zanzibar’s private sector has emphasized the critical role of inclusive trade in promoting sustainable economic development across the Isles.

The announcement was made during the official launch of the 12th Zanzibar International Trade Fair (ZITF) at Fumba-Dimani on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

The opening ceremony is part of ongoing celebrations marking the 62nd anniversary of the Zanzibar Revolution, which falls on January 12.

Zanzibar National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Chairman, Mr Ali Amour Suleiman, stressed that inclusive trade drives growth while empowering local entrepreneurs and communities, fostering long-term socio-economic stability.

"Inclusive trade is not just a policy goal; it ensures that all stakeholders, from smallholder farmers to medium and large enterprises, benefit from economic activities," he stated.

Mr Suleiman highlighted the growing participation of women in business and the rise of locally manufactured goods as indicators of a strengthening economy.

"More women are joining the business sector, and the ‘Made in Zanzibar’ label demonstrates our economy is expanding," he noted.

He explained that the trade fair creates opportunities for investment and commerce, enabling enterprises to scale from micro to small operations, and from domestic to international markets.

Mr Suleiman acknowledged challenges facing small and medium enterprises, including limited access to capital, inefficient registration processes, weak collective production, and gaps in exporting value-added products.

"The revolution was about freedom, equality, and progress. These values continue to guide efforts to build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable economic future for all Zanzibaris," he added.

Zanzibar’s Second Vice President, Mr Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, who officiated the opening, reported that the business sector remains stable, contributing to a decline in inflation from 6.9 percent in 2023 to 4 percent last year.

"The Revolutionary Government continues to create a conducive environment for trade and investment. Platforms like this are essential for promoting business and locally produced goods," he said, urging institutions to strengthen systems to attract more investors.

He noted that stability in the business and industrial sector has encouraged the expansion of industries and commercial activities, establishing the foundation for sustained growth.

The Isles’ Ministry of Industry and Trade Development Permanent Secretary, Dr Habiba Hassan Omar, observed that the fair continues to grow successfully, with participation increasing annually.

"Of the total participants, Zanzibar accounts for 246, Mainland Tanzania 61, and nine institutions from Uganda, Brazil, Congo, Zambia, Burundi, and Mozambique," she reported.

Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Union Ministry of Industry and Trade, Dr Seleman Serera, confirmed that both governments are committed to improving the business environment and encouraged entrepreneurs to exploit investment opportunities and expand trade across both regions.

Zanzibar’s Minister of Communications, Information and Innovation, Mr Mudrick Ramadhan Soraga, called on organizers to elevate the trade fair to international standards.

Unique Touch Director, Edwin Robert Geo, affirmed their responsibility to enhance Zanzibar’s global profile by ensuring the fair reaches international levels.

The 12th Zanzibar International Trade Fair operates under the theme: "Fostering Inclusive Growth through Trade and Innovation."

Since its launch in 2014, participation has grown from 109 exhibitors in the first edition to 316 this year.