TRA rolls out Zanzibar Single Window to streamline trade, simplify customs procedures

Zanzibar. The Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) has launched the Zanzibar Single Window System, a digital platform designed to simplify customs clearance procedures, improve trade facilitation and reduce the administrative burden facing importers, exporters and clearing agents.

The new system is expected to transform the business environment in Zanzibar by enabling traders to access services from multiple government institutions through a single electronic gateway, eliminating the need to visit numerous offices to secure approvals and permits.

Speaking during the launch ceremony in Zanzibar on June 2, 2026 TRA Zanzibar Deputy Commissioner, Mr Saleh Haji Pandu, said the platform marks a significant milestone in the government's efforts to modernise public services and enhance the efficiency of trade-related operations.

Mr Pandu, who represented TRA Commissioner General Mr Yusuph Juma Mwenda, said the system would strengthen coordination among regulatory agencies while reducing delays that have historically affected cargo clearance and cross-border trade.

"Before the introduction of this system, traders and importers were required to move from one institution to another to complete regulatory and customs procedures. This process consumed considerable time and increased the cost of doing business," he said.

"The Zanzibar Single Window System brings together various government agencies under one digital platform, allowing users to access services more efficiently and transparently."

He described the initiative as part of the broader government agenda to accelerate digital transformation, improve service delivery and create a more conducive environment for trade and investment.

According to Mr Pandu, integrated digital systems also play an important role in strengthening revenue administration and combating fraudulent activities.

"Digital integration enhances transparency and accountability. It helps minimise opportunities for fraud, improves revenue collection and ultimately increases the government's ability to finance development programmes and public services," he said.

The project has received technical support from the Korea Customs Service (KCS), which has been working with Tanzanian authorities to strengthen customs administration through the adoption of advanced information technology systems.

Speaking at the event, the Director General of Information Technology Services at KCS, Mr Kim Ki-dong, said the initiative would significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of customs operations in Zanzibar and across Tanzania.

"The Single Window System will enable faster information sharing among agencies and simplify customs procedures for traders. This will contribute to more efficient trade facilitation and stronger customs administration," he said.

Mr Kim reaffirmed KCS's commitment to supporting Tanzania's digital customs transformation through the development of modern technological solutions.

"We remain committed to working closely with Tanzania Customs and other stakeholders to develop innovative electronic systems that enhance customs operations and facilitate legitimate trade," he added.

Stakeholders in the freight and logistics sector welcomed the introduction of the platform, saying it would address longstanding challenges associated with cargo clearance processes.

The President of the Zanzibar Freight Brokers Association (ZFBA), Mr Omar Hussein Mussa, said customs agents have traditionally been required to engage with more than 14 institutions before completing cargo clearance procedures.

"The current process involves extensive paperwork and multiple approvals from different authorities. This often results in delays, additional costs and operational inefficiencies," he said.

"The Zanzibar Single Window System will provide a centralised platform through which traders and customs agents can complete the required procedures more quickly, efficiently and at a lower cost."

Mr Mussa said the system would help align Zanzibar's trade facilitation framework with international standards and best practices, thereby enhancing the islands' attractiveness as a trade and investment destination.

The launch follows similar reforms implemented on Tanzania Mainland, where the Tanzania Electronic Single Window System has already been established to connect traders, customs authorities and regulatory agencies through a unified digital platform.

The Mainland system was introduced as part of efforts to implement the World Trade Organisation's Trade Facilitation Agreement and improve the country's logistics performance by reducing clearance times, lowering compliance costs and enhancing transparency in cross-border trade.

By integrating government agencies involved in import and export processes, the Mainland Single Window has helped minimise duplication of procedures and improve coordination among institutions responsible for issuing permits, licences and certificates.

Trade experts say the extension of a similar framework to Zanzibar is expected to create greater harmonisation between the two sides of the Union, facilitate the movement of goods and strengthen Tanzania's overall competitiveness in regional and international trade.

Once fully operational, the Zanzibar Single Window System is expected to accelerate the delivery of trade-related services, strengthen accountability in tax and customs administration and support the growth of commerce and investment in the archipelago.

The initiative is also expected to contribute to broader economic development goals by reducing transaction costs, improving the predictability of trade procedures and enhancing the ease of doing business for local and international investors.