Tanzania is urgently seeking ways to safeguard its growing meat export industry after export volumes have significantly declined in recent weeks due to cargo disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

According to data from the Tanzania Meat Board, weekly meat shipments dropped from approximately 387 tonnes during the week of February 7–14, 2026, to about 147 tonnes between March 7–14, representing a 62 percent decline in just one month. Exporters attribute this decrease to reduced cargo capacity and flight cancellations, which have severely restricted access to major traditional markets.

Historically, goat meat and mutton have been key export commodities for Tanzania, accounting for around 14,000 tonnes exported in 2023, primarily to destinations in the Middle East.

Exports to markets such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Kuwait have been most affected by the cargo crunch, making it challenging for perishable goods to reach buyers in a timely manner.

In a typical year, Tanzania exports a significant portion of its livestock products to the Middle East. However, due to diminished freight space and rising shipping costs in the region linked to the conflict, exporters are increasingly exploring alternative strategies, including boosting local market sales and expanding distribution networks into domestic hubs like Dar es Salaam.

The Tanzanian government has pledged support to local meat processors and livestock institutions to help the sector cope with external shocks. Discussions are underway to introduce dedicated cargo flights to ensure export continuity. Officials are also focusing on value addition, with the aim of significantly expanding meat exports in the coming years; this strategy is seen as critical to reducing dependence on volatile international markets.