Important links
This section provides an overview of key Government of Tanzania institutions that are relevant to establishing, operating, and growing businesses in Tanzania. These bodies play a central role in policy formulation, regulation, taxation, investment facilitation, compliance, trade, finance, and sector-specific oversight, and are integral to the country’s business and regulatory environment.
Government of the United Republic of Tanzania
The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania is the central authority responsible for policy formulation, legislation, and overall governance of the country. It operates through the Union Government and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar. Most business-related laws, regulations, and national development policies originate from government ministries, departments, and agencies under this structure.
Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA)
The Tanzania Investment and Special Economic Zones Authority (TISEZA) is the principal government agency responsible for investment promotion, facilitation, and regulation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and Export Processing Zones (EPZs) in Tanzania. TISEZA operates as a one-stop facilitation authority, coordinating approvals, licenses, incentives, and regulatory clearances required by investors.
TISEZA supports both domestic and foreign investors by streamlining administrative processes, reducing regulatory complexity, and enhancing the overall ease of doing business. It also plays a central role in advising the Government on investment policy matters and promoting Tanzania as a competitive investment destination.
Tanzania Revenue Authority
Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) works with a mission to be an effective and efficient Tax Administration, which promotes Voluntary Tax Compliance by Providing high quality Customer Service with fairness and integrity through competent and motivated staff. All the laws with regards to taxation viz. Income Tax Act, Stamp Duty Act, Value Added Tax Act, etc. fall under the purview of TRA.
Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA)
The Business Registrations and Licensing Agency is responsible for business incorporation, registration of business names, intellectual property rights, and issuance of certain licenses. BRELA plays a critical role in formalizing businesses and maintaining official corporate records, including company filings and statutory compliance.
Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)
The Tanzania Revenue Authority is responsible for the administration and collection of central government taxes and non-tax revenues. TRA oversees the implementation of all major tax laws, including income tax, value added tax, customs and excise duties, and stamp duty. Businesses operating in Tanzania are required to register with TRA and comply with ongoing tax filing and payment obligations.
National Board of Accountants and Auditors (NBAA)
The National Board of Accountants and Auditors is the statutory professional and regulatory body for accountants and auditors in Tanzania. NBAA regulates the accounting profession, issues practicing licenses, sets professional standards, and oversees compliance with international accounting and auditing standards. Businesses engaging auditors or accountants must ensure they are registered with NBAA.
Bank of Tanzania (BoT)
The Bank of Tanzania is the central bank of the United Republic of Tanzania. It is responsible for formulation and implementation of monetary policy, regulation and supervision of banks and financial institutions, and maintenance of financial system stability. Businesses operating in regulated financial sectors are subject to oversight by the Bank of Tanzania.
Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)
The Tanzania Bureau of Standards is the national standards body responsible for developing, promoting, and enforcing quality standards for products and services. TBS conducts product certification, quality inspections, and conformity assessments, particularly for imported and locally manufactured goods.
Fair Competition Commission (FCC)
The Fair Competition Commission is responsible for promoting and protecting fair competition and consumer welfare in Tanzania. It regulates mergers and acquisitions, investigates anti-competitive practices, and enforces consumer protection laws. Certain business transactions require FCC approval prior to implementation.
Occupational Safety and Health Authority (OSHA)
The Occupational Safety and Health Authority is responsible for ensuring workplace safety, health, and welfare. Businesses are required to register workplaces with OSHA and comply with occupational health and safety standards to protect employees and visitors.
Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS)
The Tanzania Bureau of Standards is the national standards body responsible for developing, promoting, and enforcing quality standards for products and services. TBS conducts product certification, quality inspections, and conformity assessments, particularly for imported and locally manufactured goods.
Workers Compensation Fund (WCF)
The Workers Compensation Fund administers compensation for employees who suffer work-related injuries, diseases, or death. Employers are required to register with WCF and make statutory contributions based on payroll.
National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and Parastatal Pensions Fund (PPF)
These statutory social security institutions administer mandatory pension and social security schemes for employees. Employers are required to register employees and remit statutory contributions in accordance with applicable laws.
Immigration Services Department
The Immigration Services Department is responsible for issuance of residence permits, work permits, visas, and citizenship services. Businesses employing expatriates must comply with immigration requirements and obtain appropriate permits for foreign employees.
Workers Compensation Fund (WCF)
The Workers Compensation Fund administers compensation for employees who suffer work-related injuries, diseases, or death. Employers are required to register with WCF and make statutory contributions based on payroll.
Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA)
The Tanzania Ports Authority manages and operates sea and lake ports in Tanzania. It plays a key role in international trade, logistics, and supply chain operations for importers and exporters.
Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA)
EWURA regulates the electricity, petroleum, natural gas, and water sectors. Businesses operating in regulated energy and utilities sectors must obtain licenses and comply with tariffs and regulatory requirements set by EWURA.