Russia in talks on new cargo line with African state

Moscow’s minister of economic development has highlighted Tanzania’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean

Russia is in talks with Tanzania to establish a regular maritime cargo line, Minister of Economic Development Maksim Reshetnikov has stated. 

He was speaking at the Russia-Tanzania Business Forum on Tuesday, held as part of a Russian delegation’s visit to the country, which focused on expanding logistics and trade links between the two countries.

Reshetnikov stated that logistics is at the forefront of Russia’s strategic priorities. “Tanzania’s advantageous location on the eastern coast of the Indian Ocean and connectivity with other African countries offers Russia substantial opportunities. The republic could serve as a primary entry point for Russian products onto the African continent, extending the North-South Transport Corridor. Likewise, Russia could become an ‘entryway’ for Tanzania to access the Eurasian Economic Union market,” he said.

However, he acknowledged that Tanzania’s port capacity is currently limited. According to the minister, the proposed cargo line development will be executed in phases and temporary solutions will be employed while long-term investments are discussed.

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A Russia-Africa fund is being set up to help finance this project, though the fund will only partially cover the costs, with the difference expected to come from the private sector, he added.

In addition to logistics, Reshetnikov highlighted interests in social collaborations across education, science, and healthcare.

Russia and Tanzania have signed an agreement to resume direct flights, beginning with charter services. Reshetnikov mentioned that Tanzania is preparing to host Russian bloggers and media representatives to promote its tourism potential.

“I won’t specify dates, but it’s likely to start with charter flights. We have now signed the agreement, with final ratification pending,” he said. Reshetnikov also noted “there’s clear interest, but it’s too early to discuss specifics. The flow of tourists is one way to help balance the trade.” 

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Prior to the suspension of flights in 2021, several Russian airlines operated flights to the Tanzanian archipelago of Zanzibar. In 2019, 6,300 Russian citizens visited Tanzania, including around 4,000 tourists, according to official statistics.