Doing Business in Tanzania, Questions and Answers

This Q&A gives an overview of the key issues in establishing a business in Tanzania,
including the available business vehicles and their applicable formalities; corporate
governance structures and requirements; foreign investment incentives and restrictions;
currency regulations; and tax and employment issues.
To compare answers across multiple jurisdictions, visit the

1. Business vehicles

What are the main forms of business vehicle used in your jurisdiction? What are the
advantages and disadvantages of each vehicle?
The principal forms of business arrangements in Tanzania are:

 Sole proprietorships.
 Partnerships.
 Trusts.
 Co-operative societies.
 Non-governmental organisations.
 Companies.

1.1 Sole proprietorship

This is most appropriate in the case of a sole investor.

Advantages include:

 The procedure for setting up business is simple and low cost.

 Decision-making is easy as the proprietor does not need to consult with anyone before
arriving at a decision.
 The business will be taxed at the rates applied to personal income rather than
corporate tax.

Disadvantages include:

 It tends to be difficult to raise capital.

 The business is not a separate legal entity from its owner.
 The sole proprietor is personally liable for the liabilities of the business.
 The business is dissolved on the death of the sole proprietor.
 There is little scope for growth and expansion as it is limited to a single person in
terms of capital and manpower.

1.2 Partnership

It can be appropriate where there is more than one investor.

Advantages include the fact the costs of set up are lower than for a company.
Disadvantages include:

 It tends to be difficult to raise capital.

 The business is not a separate legal entity from the partners.
  The partners are personally liable for the liabilities of the business.
 If a partner leaves the partnership, the business is automatically dissolved unless
otherwise agreed.

A partnership deed is advisable to set out how to control partnership business and decision-
making.

1.3 Co-operative societies

Co-operative societies are appropriate where persons:

 Voluntarily join together to achieve a common need.

 Form a democratically controlled organisation.
 Make equitable contributions to the capital required for the formation of the
organisation.
 Accept the risks and benefits of the undertaking in which they actively participate.

Advantages include:

 The limited liability status of the society.

 Exemption from duty, tax or VAT for registered societies or a specified class of
registered societies that are listed in the Government Gazette.

Disadvantages include:

 The requirement for a minimum of ten people for setting up a primary (grass-root
level) co-operative society.
 Restrictions on the transfer of shares in the society.

1.4 Non-governmental organisations

These are appropriate for voluntary, autonomous, non profit-sharing organisations.

Advantages include attaining the recognition provided through registration as a non-
governmental organisation, which may facilitate in obtaining charitable status for tax
purposes.
Disadvantages include:

 A lengthy registration process.

 The requirement that a minimum of two members or office bearers are Tanzanian
residents.

1.5 Company limited by guarantee

This is an appropriate business vehicle for non-profit or charitable organisations. Advantages

include:

 Having limited liability status without members having to contribute to the company's
capital above the committed amount.
 Relatively quick set up time.
Each member guarantees to contribute a capped sum to the assets of the company in the event
of it being wound up, or within one year after ceasing to be a member.
The main disadvantage is that it is not appropriate for normal business activities since any
income generated by the company must be used for its declared objects or purposes.
Consequently the members are not entitled to any income generated by the company.

1.6 Limited liability company

To set up a limited liability company the general requirement is a minimum of two

shareholders and two directors

 A limited liability company enjoys many advantages over a sole proprietorship and a
partnership, including:
 Distinct and separate legal personality separate from its shareholders.
 The liability of the shareholders is limited.
 The business is not dissolved on the death of one of the shareholders or directors.

Disadvantages include:

 Close regulation by statute.

 There are (limited) circumstances in which the "corporate veil" may be lifted and the
shareholders can be liable for the obligations of the company (but this is rare and only
in extreme cases).
 Although generally managed by its directors, bona fide third parties can rely on the
apparent ostensible authority of a non-authorised director to bind the company.

For joint ventures a shareholders' agreement is advisable to best control the decision-making
in the company. Limited liability companies are the most popular form of investment vehicles
in Tanzania.

2. Establishing a presence from abroad

What are the most common options for foreign companies establishing a business
presence in your jurisdiction?

Generally, a foreign company establishes a business in Tanzania by either:

 Setting up a limited liability Tanzanian company as a group subsidiary.

 Registering a foreign limited liability company in Tanzania as a branch, that is, having
an established place of business in Tanzania.

If the company has a charitable purpose it will generally set up a Tanzanian company limited
by guarantee.
The limitation of liability concept applies in a similar way to other common law jurisdictions.

How can an overseas company trade directly in your jurisdiction?

An overseas company can establish a branch by registration of an established place of

business in Tanzania. A foreign company is not deemed to have a place of business in
Tanzania solely on account of its doing business through an agent in Tanzania at the place of
business of the agent.

Once a foreign company is registered in Tanzania, it has the same powers as if it were a
company incorporated in Tanzania, and is therefore subject to the laws of Tanzania.
A foreign company seeking to establish a place of business in Tanzania must deliver the
following documents to the Registrar:

 Certified copy of memorandum and articles of association or other instrument

constituting or defining the constitution of the company. If the instrument is not in
English, a certified translation is required.
 A list of directors and company secretary of the company.
 A statement of all subsisting charges created by the company.
 Names and addresses of one or more persons, resident in Tanzania authorised to
accept on behalf of the company service of process and any other notice required to be
served on the company, and to represent the company as its permanent representative
at its place of business (with a statement as to the extent of its authority).
 Full address of registered principal office of the company and full address of place of
business in Tanzania.
 Statutory declaration made by the director or secretary of the company stating the date
on which the company's place of business in Tanzania was established, the business
that is to be carried on and if different from the registered name of the company, the
name under which that business is to be carried on.
 A copy of the most recent accounts and related reports of the company including, if
not in English, a translation of the same.

The total fees for registration are approximately US$1,250. The filing fees are approximately
US$220.

On completion of the registration, the foreign company will be issued with a BRELA
Certificate of Compliance.

Foreign companies that have established branches in Tanzania must file, among other things,
annual accounts in every calendar year.

In addition to the BRELA Certificate of Compliance, the branch must obtain:

TIN Certificate. The branch must register with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) for a
Tax Identification Number that will be used by the branch for payment of taxes.
VAT Verification Number. Registration for VAT is required by companies with an annual
turnover of TZS100 million.
TAX Clearance Certificate. A Tax Clearance Certificate is obtained from the TRA prior to
making an application for a business licence.
Business Licence. The branch must have a business licence specific to its type of business.
This is usually obtained from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, or relevant
Municipal Council, depending on the type of business.
Other licences and authorisations. Branches trading in certain business sectors may require
special authorisations. For example, a company dealing in manufacturing of commodities
must obtain an Environmental Impact Assessment Certificate from the National
Environmental Management Council.
What are the formalities for setting up a partnership?

Partnerships are set up and regulated either:

 By an agreement between the partners.

 In the absence of a contract, by the rules set out in the Law of Contract Act (Cap 345)
R.E. 2002.

The partnership does not have a separate legal personality. Every partner is liable for all debts
and obligations incurred while he is a partner in the usual course of business by or on behalf
of the partnership.
Every partner is an agent of the firm and the other partners, and therefore any act a partner
does in the course of carrying on the firm's usual business binds the firm and the partners.
Partners are also liable to compensate a third party for any loss, damage arising or any penalty
incurred as a result of:

 Any wrongful act or omission of any partner acting in the ordinary course of business
or the firm, or with the authority of the other partners.
 Any misapplication of money or property received by a partner acting within the scope
of his authority.
 Any misapplication by one or more partners of money or property received by the firm
in the course of its business, while in the custody of the firm.

A person who is admitted as a partner to an existing firm is not liable for the debts of the firm
incurred before he became a partner. However a retiring partner does not cease to be liable for
partnership debts or obligations, unless he is discharged from such liabilities by either an
express or implied agreement between him, the other partners and the creditors.
All property is deemed to be partnership property, and must therefore be held by the partners
if:

 Brought into the partnership.

 Acquired on account of the firm, or for the purposes and in the course of the business
of the partnership.

As regards taxation, Tanzania's tax laws state that partnerships are not liable to pay income
tax in respect of their total income. The income of a partnership must be allocated to the
partners in proportion to each partner's share and taxed accordingly.

What are the formalities for setting up a joint venture?

Typically, joint ventures are set up using a special purpose limited liability company. The
joint venturers hold shares in the company as governed by a shareholders' agreement and the
constitution of the company. In some sectors such as gas, investors use traditional
international market methods, such as unincorporated joint ventures.
Joint ventures between foreign companies and local businesses are encouraged in Tanzania
under the public procurement laws when a public body procures goods through international
and national competitive tendering. Margins of preference are given under the procurement
regulations to encourage foreign firms to team up with Tanzanian contractors, suppliers or
consultants in forming joint ventures or sub-contracting arrangements. Joint venture
agreements are required under public procurement laws where a tenderer submits a bid as part
of a joint venture.

Are trusts available in your jurisdiction?

A trust is an arrangement where trustees hold assets for the benefit of beneficiaries. A trust
can be formed by:

 Personal acts.
 A will.
 An order or declaration of a court.
 By operation of law.

Trusts are generally governed by the Trustees Incorporation Act 1956 (CAP 318) R.E. 2002.
An application for the incorporation of a trust is submitted to the Administrator-General (AG)
at the Registration, Insolvency and Trusteeship Agency (RITA). The application must be
made on specific forms and must include a trust deed and the names and details of the
trustees. At least two of the trustees must be residents of Tanzania.

On its incorporation, a trust becomes a body corporate with the following features:

 The power to sue and be sued.

 Perpetual succession and a common seal.
 The power to own property, including land, which is given on consent by the
Administrator General and under the conditions set out in the certificate of
compliance.

The assets and property of the trust are held according to the trust deed. The conditions and
directions in the deed are binding on and performed or observed by the trustee or trustees on
behalf of the beneficiaries.
Registered Trusts are required by law to notify RITA of any changes that occur within the
trust, including but not limited to any changes in the trustees or constitution or rules of the
trust, filing annual returns and any related changes.

3. Forming a private company

8. How is a private limited liability company or equivalent corporate vehicle most commonly
used by foreign companies to establish a business in your jurisdiction formed?

Regulatory framework

A limited liability company can be established under the Companies Act 2002 which sets out
the relevant legal framework.
Relevant bodies or authorities involved in the establishment of a business are the:

 Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA), the company registry for
companies in Tanzania.
 Ministry of Industries and Trade, or the relevant municipality (depending on the
business activity) responsible for issuing licences to companies carrying on business in
Tanzania.
  Tanzania Revenue Authority, responsible for issuing tax identification number (TIN)
certificates to resident or non-resident persons carrying on business in Tanzania.

Tailor-made or shelf companies

Shelf companies are not generally available in Tanzania. A company can however be set up
quickly after a search for the availability of a preferred company name has been made at
BRELA.

Formation process

The formation process includes providing the following details to BRELA:

 Three alternative names for the proposed company in preferential order. The last word
in each must be "Limited".
 Articles of association. The authorised share capital normally, dependent on the
business sector, must be a minimum of TZS20,000.
 Shareholders. The authors recommend a minimum of two. It is not necessary to be a
Tanzanian citizen, resident or individual. A company must execute these formalities
with its company seal. Full names, postal address and occupations of the shareholders
must be provided.
 Directors. There must be a minimum of two. It is not necessary to be a Tanzanian
citizen or resident. A director can be an individual or a company. Details must be
provided of each director.
 Company secretary. This can be one of the directors. Details must be provided.
 Registered office. The address with a copy of any relevant lease must be provided.

The steps to formation are as follows:

 A formal search at BRELA to check the availability of the three preferred company
names.
 Preparation of a memorandum and articles adapted to suit the proposed business of the
company and the required share capital structure.
 Preparation of forms 14A and 14B for filing at BRELA.
 Signing of BRELA integrity Pledge Form.
 The certificate of incorporation is received.
 Preparation of a common seal of the company.
 Preparation of required company registers.

Company constitution

The constitution of the company consists of a memorandum and articles of association:

 The memorandum states the name and objects of the company.

 The articles of association contain the regulations for the company.

Template articles for the management of private companies as well as other types of
companies are provided in Tables A to E in the Schedule to the Companies Act.
The memorandum and articles are public documents and can be accessed by any person who
makes a formal request to BRELA. These documents must be:
  Printed in English or Kiswahili.
 Divided into consecutively numbered paragraphs.
 Signed and dated by each subscriber in the presence of at least one attesting witness
(preferably a notary public or commissioner for oaths with their stamp).
 Delivered to the BRELA Registrar for registration.

Alteration of the memorandum or articles must be by special resolution.

Separate shareholder agreements can be used in addition to and overriding the articles.

4. Financial reporting

What financial reports must the company submit each year?

A company must present to a general meeting of the company, copies of its financial reports
in respect of each accounting period. The reports must be produced at the meeting and
delivered to BRELA within ten months of the end of the accounting period.

For a foreign company, the reports must be delivered to BRELA within three months after the
date on which the reports are made.

Every overseas company that establishes a branch in Tanzania must submit accounts in such
form, contain such particulars and together with such other required documents, as if the
branch were a company incorporated under the Companies Act. The branch's balance sheet,
profit and loss account and cash flow statement, must comply with the requirements
prescribed by the National Board of Accountants and Auditors, taking into account generally
accepted principles of accounting.
A dormant company, that is, a company no longer trading, is still required to deliver its
financial annual accounts to BRELA.

Trading disclosure
What are the statutory trading disclosure and publication requirements for private companies?
Private companies are subject to several trading disclosure and publication requirements:

 The name of the company must have the word "Limited" as the last word.
 The company name must be painted or affixed on the outside of every office or place
where its business is carried on, in a conspicuous position in legible text. A company
that does not comply with this requirement is liable to a default fine.
 The company name must be engraved legibly on the company seal.
 A company must also have its name and registered office mentioned in legible letters
on all:
o business letters of the company;
o notices;
o other official publications of the company; and
o invoices, receipts and letters of credit.

How do companies execute contracts or deeds?

Documents are executed by a company by either two directors or a director and a company
secretary, and by affixing of the company seal.

A company can execute deeds abroad using its seal by empowering any person to act as its
attorney to execute the deeds on its behalf, in any place in or outside Tanzania.
In the case of written resolutions of shareholders' meetings, these can be signed by or on
behalf of the shareholders on separate documents, and have the same effect as if the
resolutions were signed by each member on a single document.

The articles of association of a company can also be drafted to permit director's written
resolutions (round robin resolutions) to be circulated by directors, which have the same effect
as holding a directors' meeting.

5. Membership

12. Are there any restrictions on the minimum and maximum number of members?
The minimum number of subscribers required to set up a company are two shareholders. The
maximum number of members for a private company is 50. However, the limit does not
include employees and former employees who are members of the company.
Tanzanian company law has been reformed to allow for a limited liability shareholder
company to be formed with only one shareholder. However, at the time of writing, these
changes are not yet effective.

6. Minimum capital requirements

Is there a minimum investment amount or minimum share capital requirement for company
formation?

A company can be incorporated with any amount as its authorised share capital, subject to a
general minimum capital requirement of TZS20,000. Some industries such as the banking and
insurance sectors also have specific share capital requirements that are prescribed in the
relevant legislation.

Are there restrictions on the transfer of shares in private companies?

The transfer of shares of any member in a company must be in accordance with the manner
provided by the articles of association and the Companies Act. However, a company cannot
register a transfer of shares unless a duly stamped proper instrument of transfer is delivered to
the company.

Under the Companies Act and if applicable under the articles of association, a company can
refuse to register a transfer of any shares and must send to the transferee notice of the refusal
within 60 days after the date on which the transfer was submitted to the company.
The directors can, in their absolute discretion and without giving a reason, decline to register
the transfer of any share, whether or not it is a fully paid share.
Shares of a deceased shareholder can be transferred by his or her personal representative, and
this is as valid as if the personal representative had been a member at the time of transfer.
Since July 2012, to be effective a share transfer requires a certificate issued by the Tanzania
Revenue Authority (TRA), certifying that all taxes (including income tax in respect of capital
gains) have been paid for the transfer.
Since 2012, where the underlying ownership (direct or indirect) of a Tanzanian company
changes more than 50% at any time during the previous three years, the company will be
deemed to have disposed of all its assets and liabilities, at current market value. The disposal
will trigger a deemed capital gains tax liability on any deemed gain. Additionally, since July
2014, a company whose underlying ownership changes by more than 50% is required to
report to the Commissioner for Income Tax before and after such change has occurred.

What protections are there for minority shareholders under local law? Can additional
protections be given?

Minority shareholders can seek court intervention if they believe that they are unfairly
prejudiced or the company is not properly managed. This can also institute derivative actions,
that is, the right of a person to apply to the court to prosecute, defend or bring an action in the
name of and on behalf of the company or any of its subsidiaries. The articles of association
and any shareholders agreement can give additional protection to minority shareholders.

Are there any statutory restrictions on quorum or voting requirements at shareholder

meetings? Do quorum or voting rights need to be proportionate to shareholdings?

A minimum of two members personally present at a shareholders' meeting constitutes a

quorum. However, the articles may stipulate an additional number of members. Each member
is entitled to one vote for each share held by him. In the case of a poll vote, each member is
entitled to one vote.

Are specific voting majorities required by law for any corporate actions (for example,
increasing share capital, changing the company's constitution, appointing and removing
directors, and so on)?

Ordinary resolutions passed by a majority are required for any of the following corporate
actions:

 Issuing shares at a discount.

 Increase in the share capital of the company.
 Removal of a director before the expiry of his term.
 Removal of the auditor from office.
 Fixing a director's service contract to a term of more than three years.
 Determining the remuneration and expenses of the directors.
 Appointing an additional director.
 Authorising a member to inspect accounting records or documents of the company.
 Declaration of dividends in accordance with the respective rights of the members.

Special resolutions passed by a majority of at least 75% of the members that are entitled to
vote at a general meeting are required for:

 Alteration of the company's memorandum.

 Alteration of the articles of association.
 Alteration of any condition in the memorandum which could be contained in the
articles of association.
 Change to the name of the company.
  Reservation of any portion of uncalled share capital to ensure it is only called up on a
specific event.
 Reduction in share capital.
 Declaration that the company's affairs must be investigated by a court-appointed
inspector.
 Voluntary winding up of the company.
 Authorising a liquidation to receive shares, policies or other interest, in consideration
for the sale of property of a company that is being voluntarily wound up.
 An arrangement between the company undergoing winding up proceedings and its
creditors.

18. Can voting majorities required by law be disapplied to protect a minority shareholder (for
example, through class rights or weighted voting)?
Where the share capital is divided into different classes of shares and the rights attaching to
the classes are varied by a resolution of the holders of these shares, the holders of not less than
10% of the issued shares of that class who did not consent to the variation can apply to court
to have the variation cancelled.

7. Sectoral restrictions

What are the conditions or restrictions on establishing a business in specific industry

sectors? Are there industry sectors in which it is not permitted to establish a business?

There are no general restrictions on establishing a business in Tanzania. However, there are
some restrictions on foreign investment in certain sectors (for example, banking, mining,
telecommunications, insurance, shipping and construction) where participation by local
shareholders is required. For example:

 Banking sector. Minimum capital requirements apply for banks and financial
institutions. The minimum core capital for banks must be not less than TZS15 billion
(about US$8.75 million), and an existing bank with a core capital of less than the
prescribed amount is required to increase its core capital within a period of three years.
 Insurance sector. The Insurance Act 2009 provides that out of the issued share capital
of an insurer, not less than one third of the shareholding must be owned by Tanzanian
citizens. Tanzanian residents and resident companies must also use local insurers to
cover risks arising in Tanzania. Foreign insurers can only provide insurance services
to Tanzanian citizens or companies if the insured person obtains prior written consent
from the Commissioner for Insurance.
 Telecommunications sector. The government's current policy is that any company
holding a telecommunications or postal services licence must reserve at least 25% of
its shareholding to Tanzanian citizens through a public offering and any company
holding a contents service licence, must have at least 51% local shareholding
ownership. The shareholding requirements imposed by the Tanzania Communications
Regulatory Authority are an on-going obligation.
 Media Sector. Media houses must maintain a minimum of a 51% local shareholding.
In addition, any media house of which a foreigner is a shareholder must obtain an
approval from the Director of Information Services before applying for any change in
shareholding structure.
 Mining sector. Primary mining licences for any minerals are reserved exclusively for
Tanzanian citizens and companies where the members and directors are all Tanzanian
 citizens. Gemstone mining licences are only granted to Tanzanian citizens unless the
development of the licence areas requires special skill, technology and a high-level
investment. In these cases the Minister for Energy and Minerals can grant licences to a
non-Tanzanian citizen, if their undivided participating share in the licence amounts to
no more than 50%.
 Shipping sector. Licences to carry out shipping agency business are only granted to
companies where more than 51% of the share capital is held directly or indirectly by
Tanzanian citizens.
 Construction industry. Restrictions apply in the construction industry to foreign
contractors/subcontractors as they cannot carry out any construction works unless they
are registered with the Contractors Registration Board (CRB). Foreign contractors can
however obtain temporary registration with the CRB if they are carrying out a specific
contract. Any foreign engineers that are part of the construction company are similarly
restricted from practising in Tanzania, unless they are registered with the Engineers
Registration Board. Additionally, the Architect and Quantity Surveyors Registration
Board (AQRB) requires foreign architects, whether a business or individual, to form a
joint venture agreement with local counterparts so as to promote and encourage the
use of local expertise, goods, and services, and to develop local capabilities.

8. Foreign investment restrictions

Are there any restrictions on foreign shareholders?

There are presently no restrictions on non-Tanzanian nationals owning shares in a private

limited company incorporated in Tanzania except in the following instances:

 A company that owns land. A person who is not a Tanzanian citizen or a private
company in which the majority of shareholders are not Tanzanian citizens cannot own
land in Tanzania without a Certificate of Incentives issued under the Tanzania
Investment Act (TIA) (see Question 22).
 Purchase of shares in a public listed company. Restrictions of up to 60% foreign
investor equity participation in Tanzanian companies listed on the Dar es Salaam stock
exchange were lifted in September 2014.
 Foreign investor participation in government securities is still subject to
conditions. Residents of East African Community (EAC) member countries can
acquire, sell or transfer Tanzanian Government securities, however the total number of
acquired or sold securities must not exceed 40% of the issued securities. The amount
of securities acquired by residents from an EAC member country must not exceed two
thirds of the restricted number of government securities, and acquired securities must
not be transferred to a Tanzanian resident within 12 months of the date of acquisition.
 Public procurement. Contracts entered into pursuant to a public procurement process
or a privatisation process can also impose certain restrictions on the shareholding of
the party contracting with the public entity. For instance, the contracting party may be
required to ensure that a specified percentage of the shareholding is held by Tanzanian
citizens.

Are there any exchange control or currency regulations?

Foreign exchange controls have been largely removed, and the Foreign Exchange Act Cap
271 has liberalised external trade by creating an enabling environment for market-determined
exchange rates. Tanzanian residents and non-residents are permitted to hold any amount of
foreign currency in Tanzania and to open and maintain foreign currency accounts.
However, certain transactions are still subject to control. For example, restrictions apply
where any payment is made in Tanzanian shillings to or for the credit of a person resident
outside Tanzania.
Exchange controls also apply in relation to remittances on investment returns, and the
payment of principal and interest or premium on foreign loans and bonds. The servicing of
foreign loans requires prior notification and record-keeping by remitting banks in Tanzania.
This information is forwarded to the Bank of Tanzania, together with details of any foreign
loan, overdrafts or financial facilities with terms exceeding 365 days, and a record number is
obtained for the loan.
22. Are there restrictions on foreign ownership or occupation of real estate, or on foreign
guarantees or security for ownership or occupation?
All land in Tanzania is vested in the President of Tanzania as trustee for the nation. The main
types of land are:

 General land.
 Village land.

Statutory rights of occupancy of up to 99 years can be obtained over general land and these
rights of occupancy represent title analogous to ownership and can be sold and encumbered.
A foreign national, or foreign company, or a Tanzanian company wholly, or majority owned
by foreigners, cannot own land in Tanzania unless it is held for investment purposes through a
derivative right granted for a specified amount of time under a Certificate of Incentives issued
to it by the Tanzania Investment Centre.
A foreign entity can enter into lease agreements with land owners who have a right of
occupancy.
If the land is village land, then acquisition from the village requires its transformation from
village land to general land.

9. Directors
Are there any general restrictions or requirements on the appointment of directors?

A director must not:

 Be less than 21 years old.

 Be older than 70 years old, unless his appointment is approved by the company in a
general meeting with a special notice.
 Be of unsound mind.
 Have been declared bankrupt or insolvent by a competent court.
 Without the leave of the Court be a director of any company if:
o a person is convicted of any offence in management of a company;
o a person has been persistently in default in relation to the provisions of the
Companies Act in notifying and delivering statutory documents to the
Registrar; or
o the Court is satisfied that a person is or has been a director of a company that
has become insolvent and the court renders him unfit to be involved in the
management of companies.
There is no legal requirement for directors to be based in Tanzania.
A director must register at BRELA a written and signed consent to act as director.
Corporate directors are permissible in Tanzania but are not normally appointed.

10. Board composition

What are the legal requirements for the composition of a company's board of directors?

Structure

The composition of a company's board of directors follows a unitary structure, consisting of

executive (and if wanted, non-executive) directors and a chairman of the board. Normally
under the articles, the directors of the company can delegate their powers to a committee
consisting of one of more directors. The directors can appoint one of their number to be the
chairman of the board of directors and determine the period for which he is to hold office.

Number of directors or members

The minimum number of directors required to set up a company is two.

A minimum of two members or shareholders is required. If at any point the number of
members falls below two and the company continues to carry on business for more than six
months, then any person who becomes a member may become jointly and severally liable
with the company for the payment of any debts accrued during the period of reduced
membership.

Recent changes in company law permit companies to have only one member or shareholder in
the event that related regulations are brought into effect, which to date has not occurred. In
any event we would not advise a single member or shareholder set up.

The maximum number of permitted members or shareholders in a private limited company is

50.

Employees' representation

Directors must have regard to the interests of the company's employees. There is no legal
requirement for the employees to be represented at board level but there are legal
requirements for employee representation in cases of:

 Redundancies.
 Disciplinary hearings.
 Transfer of an undertaking.

11. Reregistering as a public company

What are the requirements for a business to reregister as a public company?

Membership
A private company can reregister as a public company by altering its memorandum stating it
is:

 A public company.
 Not restricted from transferring its shares.
 Allowed to invite the public to subscribe for shares in the company.

There are no restrictions on the maximum number of public company members. However, a
minimum of seven members is required.

Share capital

Share capital requirements for a public company depend on whether the company is listed on
the Main Investment Market (MIM) or the Enterprise Growth Market (EGM) in the Dar es
Salaam Stock Exchange (DSE).

Under the DSE Rules 2014, a public company listed on the MIM must have a paid up share
capital of at least TZS1 billion (about US$500,000). The minimum value of shares to be listed
must be at least TZS2 billion (about US$1 million).

At least 25% of the shares being not less than 1 million shares or any class must be in the
hands of the public (excluding shares held by majority shareholders, directors or connected
persons) before the company can be admitted to the MIM, and the company must have at least
1,000 shareholders.

The DSE may in exceptional circumstances allow a lower percentage of shares, and/or a
fewer number of shares to be held by the public, where the amounts of shares and the extent
of their distribution would enable the capital market to operate properly.
A public company listed in the EGM must have a minimum paid up capital of TZS200
million (about US$100,000), and the securities must have a value of at least TZS200 million.
The company must have at least 100 shareholders and issue a minimum of 500,000 shares to
the public.

12. Tax

What main taxes are businesses subject to in your jurisdiction?

Corporation tax

Corporation tax is levied on the total taxable income of the company that has a source in
Tanzania, that is, the company's revenue less any allowable deductions.
The current rate is 30% for both resident and non-resident companies. A company that is
listed on the Dar es Salaam stock exchange (DSE) is subject to corporation tax at a reduced
rate of 25% for three years. This concession is only allowed where the company has listed at
least 30% of its shares.

Gains on the realisation or disposal of investment assets (capital gains tax)

Tax is levied on capital gains by companies at 30%. Disposals of certain assets are exempt
from income tax, including:
  Private residences.
 Agricultural land.
 Units in an approved collective investment scheme.
 Shares that are listed on the DSE.

However the exemptions depend on the value of the assets, and the shareholding of the listed
shares.
As mentioned in Question 14, since 2012 if the underlying ownership of a company (direct or
indirect) changes by more than 50% as compared with the ownership at any time during the
previous two years (the period of two years was introduced in 2014), the company is deemed
to have disposed of all its assets and liabilities, triggering a capital gains tax on any deemed
gain on the deemed disposal of the assets.

Value added tax (VAT)

VAT is charged on the supply of goods and services in mainland Tanzania, and on the
importation of goods and services from any place outside mainland Tanzania. The duty is
charged where a taxable supply or service is made by a taxable person. VAT is also charged
on the transfer of a business, or part of a business, if the purchaser is not registered for VAT.
An individual or company with an annual taxable turnover of more than TZS100 million falls
under the definition of a "taxable person" and must be registered in accordance with the
provisions of the VAT Act. The current VAT rate is 18% for the supply and import of goods
and services. The VAT rate for the export of goods and certain services is 0%.

Withholding tax under the ITA 2006

A person who makes any of the following payments is required to withhold income tax from
the payment at the rates stipulated in the ITA:

 Dividends. The rate varies depending on whether:

o the company is listed on the DSE (5% for resident and non-resident individuals
and corporations); or
o dividends are paid to a resident corporation controlling 25% or more of the
corporation (5% for resident corporations and 10% for non-resident
corporations).

Dividends from other corporations are subject to a flat rate of 10% which is levied on both
resident and non-resident individuals and corporations.

 Interest (other than to a resident financial institution or to a non-resident bank by a

strategic investor): 10%.
 Natural resource payments: 15% for resident and non-resident corporations.
 Royalties: 15% for resident and non-resident corporations. Separate rates of
withholding tax apply to mineral royalties and are provided in the regulations made
under the Mining Act 2010. Some of the mineral royalties include:
o Diamonds, gemstones, uranium: 17%;
o Metallic minerals (including copper, gold, silver and platinum group minerals):
4%;
o Other minerals: 3%;
o Gems: 1%.
  Director fees (other than full time service): 15%.
 Rent for land and buildings (except where the rent is paid to a resident person for the
use of an asset other than land or buildings): 10% for payments to resident and non-
resident corporations). Rent paid to a resident person for use of an asset other than
land or buildings is exempt (0%), and 10% for a non-resident person. For an aircraft
lease, the rate is 10% for both resident and non-resident corporations.
 Service fees: 15% for payments to non-resident corporations and 5% to resident
corporations.
 Technical services to mining companies: 5% for payments to resident and 15% for
payments to non-resident corporations.
 Insurance premiums: 5% for payments to non-resident corporations, and exemption
for the resident ones.

Withholding tax reliefs may apply to Export Processing Zone (EPZ) or Special Economic
Zone (SEZ) investors, as well as for "strategic investors".

Stamp duty

Stamp duty is levied on specific instruments that are executed in mainland Tanzania, or if
executed outside mainland Tanzania, relate to any property, thing or matter that is to be
performed or done in mainland Tanzania.
These instruments must be stamped. Any instrument that is not stamped will not be admitted
as evidence in court in the event of a dispute, unless the required duty, plus any late payment
penalty, is paid.
Instruments that attract stamp duty include:

 Leases.
 Debentures.
 Mortgages.
 Powers of attorney.
 Share transfer forms.
 Conveyances or any transfers of property.

The current rate of stamp duty payable on shares, lease agreements or the transfer of property
is 1% of the value of the subject matter.

Excise duty on imports

Excise duty is levied on imported consumer goods, and certain excisable services, that are
specified in the Excise (Management and Tariff) Act Cap. 147.

Import /customs duty

The importation of certain goods attracts import duty at an ad valorem rate based on the value
of goods imported.

Service levy

A service levy is payable by corporate entities or any person conducting business with a
licence, at a rate not exceeding 0.3% of the turnover of a corporate entity, net of VAT and the
excise duty, to the urban authority or district council where the company's registered office, or
registered branch, is situated.
27. What are the circumstances under which a business becomes liable to pay tax in your
jurisdiction?

Corporation tax

Corporation tax is payable for each year of income on, among other things, chargeable
income for the year of income, by a corporation or foreign branch.

13. VAT

A business with a taxable turnover exceeding TZS100 million (about US$50,000), or which
has reason to believe that its turnover will exceed or is likely to exceed this threshold amount,
must register for VAT.

Skills and development levy (SDL)

Any business that employs more than four people must pay SDL. The current rate is 6% of
the total amount paid to all its employees each month. A portion of the levy goes to the
Vocational Education and Training Authority to provide vocational skills to Tanzanians.

Pay As You Earn (PAYE)

A business that makes a payment to an employee is required to withhold PAYE tax from the
employee's chargeable income, at the rate specified in the Income Tax Act. The business must
provide returns to the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), setting out its payroll and the tax
that is to be withheld, and must submit the return within seven days after the month in which
the tax was deducted.

Tax resident

A corporation is liable to tax if it is incorporated in Tanzania, and at any time during the year
of income, the management and control of its affairs are exercised in Tanzania.

Non-tax resident

A non-tax resident business is liable to pay tax in Tanzania if its business income or
investment has a source in Tanzania.
The business is also liable to tax if it is a permanent establishment of a non-resident company
situated in Tanzania.
The tax liability of the tax non-resident business is calculated as if the business and the
permanent establishment are independent but associated persons, and the permanent
establishment is resident in Tanzania.
28. What is the tax position when profits are remitted abroad?
A company that has a domestic permanent establishment (see Question 27) is subject to tax on
all the repatriated income of the permanent establishment (section 70(3) , Income Tax Act
(Cap 332) R.E. 2006). The domestic permanent establishment must maintain an accumulated
profits account which at the end of each year of income is (section 72(3), Income Tax Act
(Cap 332) R.E. 2006):

 Credited with the net total income of the permanent establishment.

 Debited with the repatriated income.

29. What thin-capitalisation rules and transfer pricing rules apply?

Thin-capitalisation

A company at least 25% foreign-owned cannot deduct interest from its taxable income if its
ratio of debt to equity is more than 70:30. In this case, the interest is non-deductible and is
added back as taxable income. Before 2010 it used to be an "interest cover" restriction.
Since 2010, "debt" is defined as any debt obligation excluding a (Finance Act 2012):

 Non-interest bearing debt obligation.

 Debt obligation owed to a resident financial institution.
 Debt obligation owed to a non-resident bank or a financial institution on whose
interest has been subject to withholding tax in Tanzania.

"Equity" is now defined as:

 Paid up share capital.

 Paid up share premium.
 Retained earnings on an unconsolidated basis determined in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles.

The debt and equity amounts used in the calculation are the average balances at the end of
each month.

Transfer pricing

The Tanzanian Government has formulated rules under the Income Tax Act and the Income
Tax (Transfer Pricing) Regulations 2014 to minimise tax losses arising from transfer pricing.
In any arrangements between associated persons, such persons must quantify, apportion and
allocate the amounts to be included or deducted in calculating income between the associates,
as is necessary to reflect the total income or tax payable that would have arisen for them, if
the arrangement had been conducted at arm's length. If the Commissioner for Income Tax
believes that the associates failed to apportion the amounts as required, he can make such
adjustments that are consistent with the laws to ensure that income and expenditure resulting
from these arrangements are consistent with the arm's-length principle, for example:

 Re-characterise the source and time of any income, loss, amount or payment.
 Apportion and allocate expenditure incurred by one person in conducting a business
that benefits an associate in conducting a business, to the person and the associate,
based on the comparative turnover of the businesses.
 The Transfer Pricing Regulations allow associates to enter into an advance pricing
arrangement with the Commissioner for Income Tax for certain future transactions
undertaken by the associated parties over a fixed period of time. The validity of such
 an arrangement must not exceed five years, but is subject to review at the
Commissioner's discretion.
 If approved by the Commissioner for Income Tax, the arrangement is binding on the
Commissioner, and no transfer pricing adjustments will be made to transactions that
are entered by the associates during the term of the arrangement.

14. Grants and tax incentives

Are grants or tax incentives available for companies establishing a business in your
jurisdiction?

Investment is actively promoted and encouraged in Tanzania and the Tanzania Investment
Centre (TIC) is the primary agency of the Tanzanian Government with power to co-ordinate,
encourage, promote and facilitate investment in Tanzania.
Incentives can be:

 Fiscal incentives including import duty and VAT exemption on project capital/deemed
capital goods, and the Import Duty Draw Back Scheme.
 Non-fiscal incentives including an immigration quota of up to five persons and a right
for a foreign company to own land.

Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC)

The TIC grants incentives to companies that invest in the following sectors:

 Agriculture and livestock development.

 Tourism.
 Manufacturing.
 Services.
 Information and communication technology.
 Real estate.
 Commercial building.
 Transportation.
 Broadcasting and telecommunications.
 Natural resources.
 Financial institutions.
 Energy.
 Human resources development.
 Infrastructure.

To qualify for a TIC Certificate of Incentives proof of a minimum fixed investment capital of
at least US$100,000 is required for new, rehabilitation or expansion projects that are wholly
owned by Tanzanian citizens. Where the projects are wholly owned by foreign investors or
are undertaken as a joint venture with Tanzanian citizens, proof of a minimum investment
capital of at least US$500,000 is required.
For strategic or major investments the minimum investment capital requirements are both:

 US$20 million (for projects that are wholly owned by Tanzanian citizens).
 US$50 million (for projects that are either wholly owned by foreign investors or are a
joint venture between Tanzanian citizens and foreign investors).
The government may identify projects and grant special "strategic investment status" to
projects:

 That have a minimum investment capital of not less than the equivalent in Tanzanian
shillings of US$300 million.
 That the investment capital transaction is undertaken through a registered local
institution.
 That create at least 1,500 direct local employees with a satisfactory number of senior
positions in projects that do not require high and sophisticated technology.
 That have the capability to significantly generate foreign exchange earnings, produce
significant import substitution goods or supply of important facilities necessary for
development in the social economic or financial sector.

To apply for a TIC certificate, the investor must submit completed TIC application forms
which are available at a fee of US$100. The TIC also requires, among other things, certain
basic supporting documents to process an application, including:

 Business plan/feasibility study.

 Evidence of sufficient finance capital available to implement the project.
 Evidence of land ownership for the location of the project. If an investor does not own
land in the project area then a lease agreement for not less than three years will suffice.
 A project implementation schedule.

The TIC Certificate of Incentives gives the developer certain benefits, which can include:

 Protection against any non-commercial risks.

 Reduced import duty on project capital goods, semi and fully processed inputs, and
spare parts other than for motor vehicles.
 VAT deferment on project capital assets including locally procured building materials.
 The right to obtain work permits for five foreign nationals on the project.

A fee of US$1,000 is payable for the TIC certificate if the investment qualifies for registration
with the TIC.
Incentives are also offered under economic zone laws, for starting a business in export
processing zones (EPZs) and special economic zones (SEZs).

Export Processing Zones (EPZs)

The Export Processing Zone Authority (EPZA) grants incentives to businesses located in
EPZs that manufacture and export industrial products and to companies that provide
infrastructure necessary for the development of EPZs.
Investors wishing to carry out business in EPZs can register as developers, operators or
service providers.
The criteria for investing in an EPZ include that:

 At least 80% of the goods produced within the EPZ must be sold to export markets.
 Annual turnover from the exported goods must be at least US$100,000 for local
investors, and US$500,000 for foreign investors.
The application process involves submitting an application form, a copy of the business plan,
the location of the proposed investment, and a fee of US$250.
Incentives offered by EPZA include:

 Exemption from payment of corporation tax, withholding tax and all other taxes and
levies imposed by local government authorities in respect of products produced in
EPZs, for a period of ten years.
 Remission of customs duty, value added tax and any other tax payable in respect of
goods purchased for use as raw materials, equipment or machinery, including all
goods and services directly related to the manufacturing in the EPZs (excluding motor
vehicles, spare parts and consumables).
 Provision of a business visa at the point of entry to key technical, management and
training staff for a maximum of two months. After that, the requirements to obtain a
resident permit under the Immigration Act will apply.
 Exemption from VAT on utilities and wharfage charges.
 The right to obtain work permits for five foreign nationals on the project.
 Payments of salaries and other benefits to foreign personnel employed in Tanzania in
connection with the business enterprise.

Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

SEZ is a geographical area that has more liberal economic laws than the country's normal
laws, designed to promote rapid economic growth by using fiscal and business incentives to
attract investment and technology.
EPZA also grants incentives to investors that set up businesses in SEZs in areas such as
industrial parks, export processing zones, free trade zones, free ports, tourist parks, or science
and technology parks.
SEZ licences are issued to new investors that intend to produce goods or services for export or
domestic markets or for the generation of employment opportunities.
To be eligible to carry out business within an SEZ, the company must be a new investment
that can inject a minimum capital of US$5 million (for foreign investors) and US$1 million
(for local investors). The application procedure for carrying out a business within an SEZ is
open to any business, provided the nature of the business is such that it can be carried out
within an SEZ.
Incentives offered for registering in SEZs depend on the category of licence that is granted.
Incentives for the development of infrastructure (Category A Investors) can include:

 Exemption from payment of taxes and duties for machinery, equipment, heavy duty
vehicles, buildings and construction materials and other goods of a capital nature that
are used for the purposes of development of SEZ infrastructure.
 Exemption from payment of corporation tax, withholding tax and property tax for an
initial period of ten years.
 Remission of customs duty, VAT and other taxes payable in respect of importation of
one administrative vehicle, ambulances, firefighting equipment, fire fighting vehicles
and up to two buses for employees' transportation to and from the SEZ.
 Exemption from VAT on utilities charges.
 The right to obtain work permits for five foreign nationals on the project.

Incentives offered for the sale of manufactured goods within the customs territory (Category
B investors) can include:
  Remission of customs duty, VAT and any other tax charged on raw materials and
goods of capital nature related to the production in the SEZ.
 Exemption from payment of withholding tax on interest on foreign sourced loan.
 Remission of customs duty, VAT and other taxes payable in respect of importation of
one administrative vehicle, ambulances, firefighting equipment, fire fighting vehicles
and up to two buses for employees' transportation to and from the SEZ.
 The right to obtain work permits for five foreign nationals on the project.

Incentives offered for producing goods for sale in export markets in non-manufacturing or
processing sectors benefit from the same benefits afforded to Category A and B investors and
can include some additional incentives:

 Access to export credit guarantee schemes.

 Exemption from payment of all taxes and levies imposed by the local government
authorities for products produced within the SEZ for a period of ten years.

15. Employment

What are the main laws regulating employment relationships?

The Employment and Labour Relations Act 2004, the Labour Institutions Act 2004, the Non-
Citizens (Employment Regulations) Act 2015, the National Employment Promotion Service
Act 1999, and subsequent related rules govern all employment matters in Tanzania. The law
covers both foreign and local employees and employers within Tanzania.
The Employment and Labour Relations Act covers fundamental rights and protection of
employees, employment standards, trade unions and employers' associations, collective
bargaining, strikes and lockouts and dispute resolution.
The Labour Institutions Act provides the labour institutions machinery for dispute resolution
covering the organisational structure, functions, powers and duties of these institutions. The
Commission for Mediation and Arbitration and the High Court of Tanzania, Labour Division
are the main institutional organs for dispute resolution.
The Non-Citizens (Employment Regulations) Act 2015 provides for employment and
engagement of non-citizens, application for work permits, categories of work permit,
cancellation of work permits, returns on employment of non-citizens and incentives to
certified investors.
The National Employment Promotion Service Act 1999 provides for, among other things,
restrictions on foreigners employed in certain occupations, work permits for foreign
employers, and the work permit application procedure for any person intending to employ a
foreigner.

What prior approvals (for example, work permits, visas, and/or residency permits) do
foreign nationals require to work in your jurisdiction?

The Immigration Act 1995 (CAP 54) and Immigration Regulations 2007 govern immigration
matters in Tanzania.
Foreigners intending to come to Tanzania to perform short term business activities are
required to apply to Tanzanian immigration offices for either a business visa or business pass
depending on the country they are coming from, the details of which are as follows:
  Business visas are issued to foreigners coming from countries that require a visa to get
in. The visa will be for 90 days non-renewable at US$250.
 Business passes are issued to foreigners coming from countries that don’t require a
visa to get in. The pass will be for 90 days non-renewable at US$200.
 Both business visas and business passes are issued to a foreign individual for the
purpose of temporarily conducting business, trade, professions or assignment.
 Business visas and business passes are issued at all entry points, the immigration
service headquarters in Dar es Salaam and immigration offices in Zanzibar and at the
Tanzania diplomatic missions abroad.
 The nature of the business activity should not be or look like "employment" or
"residence".

Foreigners intending to reside in Tanzania for investment, business, employment or any other
acceptable purpose are now issued with both work and residence permits.
With the entry into force of the Non-Citizens (Employment Regulations) Act 2015 on 1
October 2015, work permits must first be issued by the Labour Commissioner before an
application for a residence permit is made to the Director of Immigration Services.
Work permits are valid for a period of 24 months from the date of issue and can be renewed
provided the permit's total period of validity from the first grant and any subsequent renewals
does not exceed five years. Validity of a work permit for an investor whose contribution to the
economy is of great value can exceed ten years.
The five categories of work permit are as follows:

 Work Permit Class A issued to investors and self-employed. The application fee is
US$1,000.
 Work Permit Class B issued to non-citizens in certain prescribed professions (medical
and health care professionals, experts in oil and gas, teachers and university lectures in
science and mathematics). The application fee is US$500.
 Work Permit Class C issued to non-citizen in possession of other professions. The
application fee is US$1,000.
 Work permit Class D issued to non-citizen employees or engaged in approved
religious and charitable activities. The application fee is US$500.
 Work Permit Class E issued to refugees free of charge.

Foreigners who are in Tanzania temporarily for business, depending on the type of business,
can use either multiple entry visa or short term permit (STP).
A multiple entry visa is issued to foreign individuals who intend to frequently visit the
country to temporarily conduct business, trade, profession or assignment but such that the
nature of their assignment should not be employment. A multiple entry visa is valid for a
period between three, six or twelve months.
STP is issued to foreign individuals who are assigned short-term assignment for a period not
more than six months. The permit is non-renewable and is not issued to managers or directors
in a company. The role is presumed to be short term. Foreigners who may qualify for STP are
individuals intending to engage in assignments of the following nature:

 Auditors.
 Researchers.
 Technicians intending to teach or perform installation of equipment.
 Short term projects.
After a public notice issued on 14 December 2015, the Carrying on Temporary Assignment
Pass will no longer be issued.
Residence permits are issued for any period not exceeding three years, and they can be
renewed for any period not exceeding two years.
There are three types of residence permit, namely:

 Residence Permit Class A issued to investors and self employed foreigners. The
application fee is between US$1,000 to US$3,000.
 Residence Permit Class B issued to employees who are offered specific employment
in Tanzania. The person must possess qualifications or skills which are not readily
available in the local labour market and his employment must be of benefit to
Tanzania. The application fee is about US$2,050.
 Residence Permit Class C usually issued to missionaries, researchers and students. The
application fee is between US$200 and US$500.

Certain foreign professional employees are restricted from employment unless they are
registered with local professional bodies, such as contractors, engineers, doctors, accountants
and auditors.
Labour and immigration policy and practice is to decline applications for residence permits
where local skills are available to meet employment requirements.

16. Proposals for reform

Are there any impending developments or proposals for reform?

Natural gas policy

The gas sector is now regulated by the Petroleum Act 2015, which came into force on 18
September 2015. It covers, among other things, the supply of gas and costs, conditions for
shipping natural gas, conditions for re-gasification, approval for import, export and transit of
gas, and determination of gas price.
A natural gas policy setting out the legal and institutional framework for midstream and
downstream activities in the oil and gas sectors was approved by Parliament on 10 October
2013. Salient features of the gas policy include:

 Need for a strategic partnership with the Tanzanian Government through public-
private partnership.
 Creation of optimum infrastructure to meet the supply of domestic demand, in addition
to exports.
 Need to prioritise the domestic market when supplying gas, but at the same time
acknowledging the mutual interests of investors to export the gas.

A revised model Production Sharing Agreement was released in November 2013. Some of the
significant changes made to the fiscal terms include an increase in royalty payments to the
government for offshore production from 5% to 7.5%, a signing bonus of not less than
US$2.5 million, and a production bonus of not less than US$5 million which is payable to the
government on commencement of production.

A draft local content policy for the oil and gas industry was released for public comments in
April 2014 and published in December 2015. Key objectives under the policy are to enhance
local capacity building and technology transfer, create employment opportunities for both
skilled and unskilled Tanzanian citizens, encourage the procurement of local goods and
services and maximise fabrication, welding, assembling and manufacturing works in
Tanzania. Regulations under the Petroleum Act with regards to local content are expected in
2017.

Draft Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania

The final draft constitution, which was prepared by the Constitutional Assembly, was released
to the general public in late 2014. The government then postponed a referendum on a new
constitution that was planned for April 2015, pending the announcement of a new date by the
National Electoral Commission, because of delays in registering voters.
Under the proposed revised (draft) Constitution, companies will be able to appeal against
decisions of the Court of Appeal by filing a memorandum of appeal to the Supreme Court.

Land ownership equity for villagers

The Ministry of Lands was understood in recent years to be researching the possibility of
allowing villagers to retain some form of "equity" ownership in land after it is transferred to
general land for investment purposes. However, this has not openly developed any further.

Merger of Export Processing Zones and Special Economic Zones

The Ministry of Industry and Trade's proposal to develop a framework for merging EPZs and
SEZs programmes in Tanzania was rejected by the government. Changes were however made
to the economic zone laws to allow for the Export Processing Zones Authority to regulate
both EPZ and SEZ programmes.

Power sector

The government has sought to address the challenges in the electricity sector by preparing the
Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) Reform Strategy and Roadmap for 2014 to 2025. The
Cabinet approved the ESI Reform Strategy in June 2014.

One of the proposed short-term reforms is to separate the generation segment of the state
utility company Tanzania Electricity Supply Company (TANESCO) from the rest of the
company's business activities. Independent power producers will be allowed to sell electricity
directly to bulk off-takers, and wheeling charges will only be paid to the company responsible
for transmission.

In the medium term, the distribution segment of TANESCO will also be separated from the
transmission segment.

The government proposes in the long term that the distribution segment be separated from the
rest of TANESCO and apportioned into several companies.
Power infrastructure, generation and distribution companies will also be allowed to list on the
Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange in order to mobilise capital investment.
The unbundling programme has been provided in the recently enacted Electricity (Market Re-
organisation and Promotion of Competition) Regulations 2016.