Boosting SMEs in Tanzania: The Potential of Regional Laboratories

Boosting SMEs in Tanzania: The Potential of Regional Laboratories

The Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has been encouraged to establish regional laboratories to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) enhance their product quality. The call was made by the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Industry, Trade, Agriculture, and Livestock, Ms Mariam Ditopile, during her visit to the TBS premises. The move is seen as crucial in assisting SMEs to produce quality products capable of competing in various markets.

Ms. Ditopile highlighted a significant challenge facing SMEs in Tanzania – the production of low-quality goods. This issue hinders their ability to penetrate markets and gain a competitive edge. The introduction of regional labs would enable SMEs to test their products from their respective regions, thus facilitating the improvement of their product quality.

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The Role of the Government and TBS

Ms. Ditopile praised the TBS for its role in supporting SMEs and urged them to continue their efforts by considering the establishment of regional labs. She also noted that the government, through the Ministry of Industry, has been a key supporter of entrepreneurship. This support is evident in the construction of modern laboratories that meet global standards, which in turn boosts quality production in the country. Such initiatives are in line with the government’s objectives of promoting SMEs.

In response to these suggestions, the Deputy of the Ministry of Industry, Mr Exaud Kigahe, assured the committee that the ministry would take the advice under consideration. This step would enable the ministry to continue supporting entrepreneurs and aid them in achieving their goals.

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Adding to these sentiments, TBS’s Director General, Dr Athuman Ngenya stated that it is the authority’s duty to ensure the quality production of both local and imported goods. He emphasized that enabling SMEs to verify their product quality is a priority for the bureau.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SMEs in Tanzania stand to gain significantly from the potential establishment of regional labs by the TBS. This move would allow them to improve their product quality and competitiveness in markets, thereby contributing to the growth of the nation’s economy. This initiative aligns with the government’s objectives of promoting entrepreneurship and quality production in Tanzania, demonstrating its commitment to the growth and development of SMEs.