INDUSTRY and Trade Minister Dr Selemani Jafo , has ordered an immediate launch of a special operation aimed at eliminating counterfeit goods and the traders involved in their sale.

The operation, which will be carried out by the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) in collaboration with the Fair Competition Commission (FCC), is set to begin without delay.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam, today March 17, 2025, after receiving a detailed investigative report from the committee probing foreign traders in Kariakoo, Jafo emphasized the urgency of addressing the growing threat of substandard products harming local businesses and consumers.

“This operation must start immediately. We cannot afford to wait any longer. Tanzanians deserve to be protected from low-quality products that undermine our economy. I direct TBS and FCC to join forces and take swift action to remove poor-quality goods from the market and ensure that all products sold in Tanzania comply with established standards. This is essential for safeguarding the nation’s economic health and public well-being,” he said.

Jafo also underscored the serious impact of illegal trade practices, noting that young Tanzanians are being exploited in ways that threaten the nation’s development.

“This operation is crucial for the future of our country. We will act now to stop these harmful practices and protect our businesses and consumers,” he stressed.

The Minister concluded by thanking the committee for their thorough report, reassuring the public that the information about those obstructing the process would remain confidential and be submitted to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.