Importing and customs in Tanzania
To import into Tanzania you register with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)'s customs and pay any import duty plus VAT on the value of the goods. As a SADC Free Trade Area member, qualifying SADC-origin goods can enter at preferential — often zero — duty with a SADC Certificate of Origin.
Import basics
- 1 Register as an importer with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)'s customs.
- 2 Pay import duty and VAT on the customs value.
- 3 Claim SADC preference with a Certificate of Origin where goods qualify.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register to import into Tanzania?
Yes — register with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA)'s customs. Import duty and VAT apply on the value of goods.
More on Tanzania
- Register a company — Tanzania
- Company tax — Tanzania
- VAT / sales tax — Tanzania
- Hiring staff — Tanzania
- Start a business — Tanzania
- Data protection — Tanzania
- Tax clearance — Tanzania
- Empowerment / B-BBEE — Tanzania
- Licences & permits — Tanzania
- Payroll & employee tax — Tanzania
- Annual returns — Tanzania
- Full Tanzania compliance guide
Importing & customs elsewhere in SADC
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Reviewed June 2026 from official sources. General information only — confirm with Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) or a registered professional.