Kenya assures citizens doing business in Tanzania will not be affected by new licensing order

The Kenyan government has moved to reassure its nationals conducting business in Tanzania that they will not be affected by a new licensing directive recently issued by the Tanzanian government.

Concerns had emerged following the publication of the Business Licensing (Prohibition of Business Activities for Non-Citizens) Order, 2025, on July 28, 2025, which appeared to restrict certain business activities by foreigners.

Nairobi had raised the matter with Dar es Salaam, arguing that the order was inconsistent with provisions of the East African Community (EAC) Common Market Protocol, which guarantees free movement of persons, services, and the right of establishment across member states.

In a statement released on Friday, Dr Caroline Karugu, Principal Secretary in the State Department for East African Community Affairs, said after bilateral consultations, Tanzania has provided assurances that the directive will not affect Kenyans.

“The United Republic of Tanzania reported that so far, no Kenyan business has been affected by the order and further reassured no Kenyan business will be affected even in future,” said Dr Karugu.

The PS urged Kenyans in Tanzania to continue running their enterprises without fear of disruption, and to seek assistance from the Kenyan High Commission should they face any challenges.

Kenya welcomed Tanzania’s reassurance, saying it demonstrates the spirit of cooperation and integration within the EAC.

“We wish to reaffirm our commitment to resolving issues through dialogue and mutual respect and continue to enhance the diplomatic relations between the two Nations,” Dr Karugu concluded.