In brief
The Tanzanian government has enacted a ban on foreign nationals operating small-scale businesses, including sectors like mobile money transfers, beauty salons, and tour guiding, a move meant to protect local livelihoods. Trade Minister Selemani Jafo justified the new directive, indicating that it aims to ensure Tanzanians dominate informal sectors, where foreign involvement, particularly by Chinese nationals, has raised concerns. The decision has been positively received domestically, especially after local traders protested against perceived unfair competition, but it has sparked backlash in Kenya, especially regarding potential violations of East African Community agreements ensuring free trade and movement. Kenyan officials worry that this protective measure may lead to retaliatory actions, highlighting an ongoing trend of political and economic tensions between the two nations.
