NEW RESTRICTIONS ON BUSINESS ACTIVITIES FOR NON-CITIZENS IN TANZANIA

The Government of Tanzania has officially issued the Business Licensing (Prohibition of
Business Activities for Non-Citizens) Order, 2025, through GN No. 487A, effective 28th July 2025.

Under this Order:
Non-citizens are prohibited from engaging in specific business activities listed in the Schedule.

Licensing authorities are barred from issuing or renewing licenses for non-citizens in these sectors.

Violations may result in:
• A fine of not less than TZS 10 million,
• Imprisonment (up to 6 months), and
• Revocation of visa and residence permits.

The list of prohibited activities includes:
• Retail & wholesale trading (excluding supermarkets/specialized outlets)
• Mobile money services
• Mobile phone and electronics repair
• Salons (except within hotels or tourism services)
• Tour guiding
• Small-scale mining
• Curio shops, museums, gambling machines (outside casinos), and more.

Tanzanian citizens found assisting non-citizens in these activities may also face penalties.

Non-citizens currently licensed in these sectors may continue only until their license expires.

For businesses, investors, and legal teams—this marks a significant policy shift in the investment and operations environment.