Production potentials of edible oils in Tanzania

This paper analyses edible oils production potentials available in Tanzania for local demand, regional markets of EAC and SADC, as well as export diversification to other African countries and world markets. The study used secondary data from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Marketing; Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Cooperatives; Tanzania Revenue Authority; and online sources. The study employed a descriptive design in data analysis. The findings show that, there is a huge unexploited potential for both production and processing of oil seeds such as sunflower, cotton, palm oil and groundnuts which can be grown in different parts of the country. Despite all these potentials, the country is a net importer of edible oils and the country is less competitive in the sector. The study concludes that, investment in this sector for both commercial farming and processing industries is necessary to achieve development goals and eradicate poverty. The study provides the way forward by suggesting measures such as; the use of high quality seeds and implementation of best farming practices; investing in research and development; and the application of modern technologies in processing and refining of edible oils.