Tanzania has lifted a ban on agricultural imports from South Africa and Malawi. They lifted the ban late on Friday, just days after announcing it.
Tanzania had imposed the ban after South Africa and Malawi blocked its agricultural products. The move now opens the door for diplomatic discussions between the three countries.
Joseph Ndunguru, director general of the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority (TPHPA), announced the decision. He said the ban was lifted “to allow for a diplomatic ministerial discussion.” He also confirmed that both South Africa and Malawi had reached out separately to resolve the dispute.
On Wednesday, Tanzania’s Ministry of Agriculture had banned all agricultural imports from Malawi and South Africa.
It also banned the export of Tanzanian fertilizer to Malawi, which Malawi depends on.
Agriculture Minister Hussein Bashe said on Wednesday: “I would like to officially announce that from this night … we won’t allow any agricultural products from South Africa in our country.”
He added, “We are imposing a similar ban on Malawi.” He also said Tanzania would stop the transit of agricultural goods through its territory to Malawi.
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The three countries are members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Talks between them are expected to continue in the coming days.
South Africa’s Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, welcomed Tanzania’s decision.
He said: “This outcome demonstrates that the diplomatic route remains the most effective path to resolving challenges… cooperation and mutual understanding can unlock shared opportunities.”
The trade tensions had started after Malawi banned Tanzanian maize flour, rice, ginger, bananas, and other products.
South Africa also blocked imports of bananas from Tanzania. Tanzania’s government had demanded that the bans be lifted by Wednesday.
Though the deadline passed without action, Tanzania decided to give dialogue a chance. Authorities in Tanzania have said talks will continue with both countries to find a lasting solution.