Turkish textile stakeholders have expressed strong interest in investing in Tanzania’s cotton industry, signaling a potential boost for bilateral cooperation in the textile and apparel value chain.
The announcement came during a meeting between Iddi Seif Bakari and Turkish textile manufacturers at the headquarters of MÜSİAD in Istanbul.
Growing Interest in Tanzania’s Cotton Potential
The meeting brought together key stakeholders across the cotton and textile value chain, including representatives from manufacturing companies and Osman Önügöre.
Ambassador Bakari highlighted Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its cotton sector, including:
- Distribution of fertilizers
- Improved access to high-quality seeds
- Development of a more investor-friendly environment
He also emphasized the role of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in attracting foreign investment, boosting exports, and creating employment opportunities.
Tanzania Targets Higher Cotton Production
Positioning Tanzania as one of Africa’s leading cotton producers, Bakari noted that cotton remains a strategic crop for economic growth and job creation.
Read more: Tanzanian Ambassador Visits TAYAL SPA to Explore Advanced Textile Capabilities
Production is expected to exceed 450,000 tonnes in the 2025/2026 agricultural season, reflecting government efforts to scale output and improve productivity.
Turkish Delegation Plans Investment Visit
Following the discussions, Turkish textile stakeholders expressed readiness to organize a working visit to Tanzania to explore:
- Investment opportunities in cotton and textiles
- Market potential and supply chain development
- Partnerships with local industries
The move reflects growing international interest in Africa’s textile value chain, particularly in countries offering raw material availability, supportive policies, and expanding industrial infrastructure.
Strengthening Textile Value Chain Cooperation
The potential collaboration between Turkish investors and Tanzanian producers could play a key role in enhancing value-added production, reducing reliance on raw material exports, and strengthening Tanzania’s position in the global textile market.
As global brands increasingly diversify sourcing and investment destinations, Tanzania’s cotton sector is emerging as a strategic opportunity for international textile players seeking long-term growth.
