MOROGORO: Tanzania has secured continued access to the European Union market after 96 per cent of honey samples tested in an internationally accredited laboratory in Germany met global quality standards, according to the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS).
The results were announced by TFS Commissioner of Conservation, Prof Dos Santos Silayo, during a leadership meeting in Morogoro Region, where officials reviewed performance in forest and beekeeping management.
A total of 70 honey samples collected from 34 districts were submitted for analysis in Germany as part of routine annual quality assurance procedures required to meet European Union import regulations.
The EU maintains strict controls on food imports, including testing for contaminants, hygiene compliance and traceability standards.
Prof Silayo said the outcome confirms Tanzania’s compliance with international benchmarks and allows exporters to maintain access to European markets, which are considered among the most regulated and quality-sensitive globally.
“Our country has the opportunity to access the European Union market and other international markets because 96 per cent of our honey has been proven to meet high-quality standards,” he said.
Rising output and export value
According to TFS, honey production has risen to an average of 33,861 tonnes, up from 31,179 tonnes, representing an eight per cent increase. Exports have reached 9,500 tonnes, valued at 93.3 billion Tanzanian shillings.
The agency attributes the growth to improved beekeeping practices, expanded extension services and investments in processing capacity. Tanzania currently has 97 medium and large-scale honey processing factories, reflecting gradual formalisation of the sector.
Officials said a new honey processing factory is being finalised in Nzega District, Tabora Region, while two others in Manyoni District and at the Sao Hill plantation in Mafinga District are undergoing rehabilitation. The projects aim to strengthen value addition and ensure compliance with export standards.
Sector importance and quality controls
Beekeeping is recognised by the government as an important source of rural income and a contributor to forest conservation, as it provides communities with economic incentives to preserve woodland areas.
To safeguard export markets, TFS conducts annual laboratory testing in internationally accredited facilities to verify that Tanzanian honey meets required standards. Producers have been urged to avoid using non-standard processing equipment and substandard storage containers, which can compromise quality and jeopardise market access.
Officials said maintaining compliance with EU requirements is critical not only for sustaining export revenues but also for strengthening Tanzania’s reputation in premium international food markets.