Tanzania is one of Africa’s leading producers of high-quality tobacco, making it a key player in the global tobacco industry.
Processing and exporting tobacco from Tanzania involves several important steps, including obtaining the necessary licenses, following regulatory compliance measures, and understanding the export market.
This guide provides insights into how businesses can successfully process and export tobacco while adhering to legal requirements.
Licensing and Permits
To engage in tobacco processing and exportation in Tanzania, businesses must first obtain the appropriate licenses and permits.
The process includes:
- Applying for a License: Businesses must apply for licenses to buy, sell, process, import, or export tobacco through the Agricultural Trade Management Information System (ATMIS).
- Accessing ATMIS: Applications can be made via the Tanzania Tobacco Board’s website, where a link to ATMIS is provided.
- Compliance with Regulations: All businesses must ensure they meet the necessary legal and regulatory requirements to operate in the tobacco industry.
Clearance Steps for Processing
Processing tobacco in Tanzania requires strict compliance with regulatory guidelines:
- Green Leaf Buying License: Businesses must obtain a Green Leaf Buying License before they can process green leaf tobacco into dry leaf tobacco.
- Ministerial Approval for Green Leaf Export: Businesses looking to export green leaf tobacco require explicit permission from the Minister of Agriculture.

Exporting Tobacco from Tanzania
Tanzania allows only dry leaf tobacco to be exported. Exporters must:
- Follow Trade Regulations: The Tanzania Trade Portal provides details on required licenses, documentation, costs, and export laws.
- Ensure Quality Standards: Processed tobacco must meet international quality standards to gain access to global markets.
Export Destinations
Tanzania exports raw tobacco to several key international markets, including:
- Belgium
- Germany
- South Korea
- Poland
- Japan
Partner with Vestergaard Limited for Seamless Tobacco Export
At Vestergaard Limited, we specialize in sourcing, processing, and exporting premium-quality tobacco from Tanzania.
With our expertise in compliance, logistics, and international trade, we make the export process seamless for our partners.
Whether you are a buyer or a supplier, we ensure efficient handling, top-notch quality, and timely delivery.
Looking to export Tanzanian tobacco? Partner with Vestergaard Limited.
📞 Contact Us: +255 762 669 061
📩 Email: hello@vestergaardtz.com