THE government has assured local traders that the newly opened East Africa Commercial and Logistics Centre in Ubungo, Dar es Salaam, poses no threat to local trade but is designed enhance regional trade.

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila made the assurance yesterday during a press conference ahead of the official launch of the center, scheduled to take place tomorrow.  He noted that President Samia Suluhu Hassan is scheduled to officiate the inauguration ceremony.

He emphasized that the opening of the centre is a strategic investment between Tanzania and China, marking a significant shift in the way business is conducted particularly at the international level.

“This development represents an evolution in trade practices. I want to assure local traders that the launch of this centre will not take away your markets,” he said. “It is part of a broader modernization of our business environment.” 

He said that the event will bring together both existing and prospective tenants of the centre, offering a platform for networking and new business opportunities.

Chalamila also pointed out that similar initiatives have already been implemented in Tanzania, including the establishment of Mlimani City Mall—also in D res Salaam—through a partnership with the University of Dar es Salaam, highlighting that the concept is not new and there is no cause for alarm.

The EACLC, located near the busy Kijazi Interchange, is designed to operate as a one-stop logistics and trade hub. It features exhibition halls, storage facilities, customs clearance services and retail spaces—aimed at boosting regional trade across East and Central Africa. Furthermore, the centre can accommodate over 2,000 business spaces and 1,000 parking bays.

 According to Chalamila, the project represents an investment of over $100 million, implemented in partnership with a Chinese investor.