Tanzania has not only achieved self-sufficiency in the cement industry, but also exported a large amount of cement. According to the data released by Dr. Seleman Jafo, Minister of Industry and Trade of Tanzania, in the parliament in May 2025, the cement output of Tanzania in 2024 was as high as 10,929,576 tons, while the annual domestic demand was about 8.5 million tons. This means that the country's cement production not only meets domestic demand, but also generates a surplus of 24295676 tons, which accounts for about 22.2% of the total output. When the
Dr. Jafo presented its budget forecast for the 2025/2026 fiscal year to Parliament, it pointed out that these surplus cement products were mainly exported to neighboring countries, including Rwanda, Malawi, Mozambique, Burundi, Uganda, Congo (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Zambia. These countries have a large demand for cement, and Tanzania, with its abundant resources and advanced production technology, can effectively meet these market demands, thus occupying an important position in the regional trade of building materials. A number of key enterprises in Tanzania play an important role
in cement exports. Among, Dangote Industries Ltd, Tanzania Portland Cement PLC, Lake Cement Co. Ltd, Mbeya Cement Co. Ltd and Tanga Cement PLC are the main participants. These enterprises not only have high visibility and market share in the domestic market, but also show strong competitiveness in the international market. They have created considerable foreign exchange earnings for the country by exporting cement, and also enhanced Tanzania's influence in the global building materials industry.
In addition, the development of the cement industry has brought significant employment opportunities to Tanzania. According to relevant statistics, the industry has created 12500 jobs, including 5220 direct jobs and 7280 indirect jobs. These jobs cover many links from cement production, transportation, sales to related supporting services, providing a stable source of income for local residents, promoting the prosperity and development of social economy, and injecting a strong impetus into the country's economic growth.