The Port of Tanga has moved to tighten oversight and improve transparency as the volume of imported vehicles handled at the facility continues to rise, prompting concerns about fairness, compliance and local participation in the growing trade.
Stakeholders at the port, including port authorities, clearing agents, transport operators and local government representatives, say new measures are being implemented to ensure that the benefits of the expanding vehicle offloading business are shared more broadly, with a particular focus on protecting opportunities for local drivers.
According to officials, the increase in vehicle imports through Tanga reflects the port’s growing strategic importance as an alternative gateway to Dar es Salaam, especially for traders serving northern Tanzania and neighbouring countries. The surge has brought economic opportunities, but it has also exposed risks of malpractice, informal arrangements and the marginalisation of local transport operators.
Port authorities say integrity-focused reforms are aimed at strengthening compliance with existing regulations, improving allocation systems for vehicle transportation, and preventing practices that favour a small group of well-connected operators at the expense of local drivers. These steps include closer monitoring of logistics processes, clearer guidelines for engaging transport services, and collaboration with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to curb corruption.
Local drivers have long complained that despite operating around the port, they are often bypassed when contracts are awarded, with work instead going to external operators. Stakeholders say addressing these grievances is critical not only for social equity but also for sustaining industrial harmony and public confidence in port operations.
The Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has repeatedly stated that good governance and transparency are central to its broader port modernisation agenda. Analysts note that as Tanga Port continues to attract higher-value trade, maintaining integrity will be key to avoiding the operational and reputational challenges that have plagued other busy ports in the region.
With vehicle imports expected to remain strong, stakeholders argue that consistent enforcement of rules and inclusive participation will determine whether the port’s growth translates into lasting economic gains for the surrounding community.
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