The Tanzanian government has officially exempted Kenyan nationals from a new business licensing regulation that restricts certain commercial activities to citizens only.

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This follows high-level bilateral consultations between Kenyan and Tanzanian officials aimed at resolving concerns raised by the Kenyan business community operating in Tanzania.

The Business Licensing (Prohibition of Business Activities for Non-Citizens) Order, 2025, introduced in July, had sparked anxiety among Kenyan traders, prompting intervention by Kenya’s Ministry of East African Community (EAC) Affairs.

Principal Secretary Caroline Karugu confirmed that the order will not disrupt operations of Kenyan businesses currently active in Tanzania.

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

In a statement, Karugu said Tanzania had reassured Kenya that no Kenyan business has been affected by the order and none will be in the future.

The move is seen as a reaffirmation of regional cooperation and a commitment to the principles of the East African Community, which promote free movement and trade among member states.