Tanzania is looking to open more doors for its businesses and investors in Europe as it moves to deepen economic ties with Serbia through a proposed Joint Economic Commission.

The commission would give companies in both countries a formal channel to pursue trade, investment and partnerships, with agriculture, mining, energy, infrastructure and tourism among the sectors being considered.

For Tanzania, the opportunity goes beyond attracting Serbian capital. Dar es Salaam could become a base for Serbian companies seeking access to East African markets, while Tanzanian exporters could use Serbia as a route into parts of Europe.

The plans were discussed in Belgrade between Tanzania’s Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo and Serbian Foreign Affairs Minister Marko Đurić during events marking 65 years of the Non-Aligned Movement. Serbia has also signaled a push to strengthen its economic relationship with Tanzania.

Tanzania puts investment opportunities on the table

Tanzania presented Serbian officials with investment opportunities in agriculture and energy, as well as minerals including gold, copper, nickel, graphite and palladium. The talks also covered fisheries, tourism and other blue-economy projects.

Agriculture could provide an early area for cooperation, with Tanzania seeking Serbian technology, expertise and skills. The wider goal is to bring more private-sector investment into productive industries while giving Tanzanian companies access to new markets.

Air links could support trade

Aviation was another part of the discussions, with the two sides looking at possible cooperation between Air Tanzania and Air Serbia, including passenger and cargo services.

Air Tanzania is Tanzania’s national carrier, while Air Serbia operates a network linking Belgrade with European and long-haul destinations. Better air connections could make it easier for investors, tourists and goods to move between the two markets.

Serbia strengthens presence in Tanzania

Serbia is also establishing a resident embassy in Dodoma, strengthening its diplomatic presence as economic discussions gather pace. Tanzania has allocated 25,200 square meters in Government City, Mtumba, for the Serbian chancery and ambassador’s residence.

The business discussions involved about 20 Tanzanian delegates, while more than 40 Serbian companies are expected to participate.

The next step is for both governments to develop a roadmap for the Joint Economic Commission and turn the proposals into trade, investment and business deals.