The East African Community (EAC) has put its concerns forward over Tanzania’s recent decision to ban foreigners from several small and medium business sectors, warning that the move, “goes against the spirit of regional integration.”

In a press statement released on Friday July 31, 2025, the EAC Secretary General, Hon Veronica Nduva, said the decision could violate the EAC Common Market Protocol, which allows citizens of partner states to freely move, work, and do business across the region.

“The Protocol clearly says that partner states should not go back on or block sectors they already opened up for regional trade and services,” she said.

Nduva argued that the EAC was formed to make trade easier between member countries and to give citizens equal chances to work and invest across borders.

“It’s important for all partner states to keep their promises to avoid weakening the region’s single market,” she added.

She confirmed that the Secretariat is now reviewing which partner states may have introduced rules that don’t match EAC commitments. A report will be presented at the next regional meeting on trade and investment.

Tanzania’s directive, signed by Trade Minister Selemani Jafo on July 25, 2025, bans non-citizens from running businesses such as mobile money services, small shops, salons, phone repair, tour guiding, cleaning services, and more. The government says the move is to protect local jobs and promote citizen-led economic growth.

However, the EAC has urged Tanzania and other countries to stick to regional agreements.

“Let’s protect our integration efforts and follow the rules we agreed to,” Nduva said, calling for dialogue to resolve such issues.

The EAC remains committed to strengthening regional ties and helping all citizens benefit equally from economic opportunities in East Africa.