DODOMA. Tanzania’s coffee industry is attracting renewed investor attention as rising global prices, increasing production, and government‑backed value‑addition initiatives strengthen the outlook for one of the country’s most important export crops.
The opportunity was highlighted during the 16th Coffee Industry Stakeholders Conference in Dodoma on June 4, 2026, where processors, exporters, and policymakers outlined plans to improve competitiveness and expand investment.
“We will continue working closely with stakeholders to ensure the industry grows further and delivers greater benefits to farmers, traders and the country as a whole,” said Tanzania Coffee Board (TCB) Chairperson Prof. Aurelia Kamuzora.
Global Price Rally Boosts Sector Outlook
Arabica prices have surged from about $100 per 50‑kg bag in 2023/24 to roughly $352 in 2025/26, while Robusta prices more than doubled. Supply disruptions in major producing countries and sustained demand are driving the rally.
For Tanzania, the favourable environment coincides with higher output: production rose from 50.53 million kg in 2024/25 to 76.47 million kg in 2025/26, generating $413 million in export earnings.
Government Pushes Value Addition
At the Second Local Coffee Roasters Forum in May 2026, TCB Director General Primus Kimaryo announced plans to raise roasted coffee output from 7% to 15% of total production. The strategy aims to reduce reliance on raw bean exports and expand opportunities in roasting, packaging, branding, and specialty coffee.
Production Expansion Continues
In May 2026, the TCB distributed 20-22 million improved seedlings nationwide, with plans to reach 30 million annually by 2026/27. The Ministry of Agriculture has set a target of 85,000 tonnes of coffee production for 2026/27, reinforcing Tanzania’s export ambitions.
Investor Lens
Attractive opportunities lie beyond farming itself, including:
- Roasting and processing
- Packaging and branding
- Export logistics
- Warehousing and storage
- Specialty coffee products
Global demand for premium, traceable coffee is creating space for investors who can meet international quality and sustainability standards.
Growth Prospects
With prices high, production rising, and policymakers prioritising value addition, Tanzania’s coffee industry is entering a new phase.
For investors, the message is clear: coffee is no longer just an agricultural story, it is evolving into a higher‑value export and processing industry with significant room for growth.
