DAR ES SALAAM, Sept. 8 -- HORTICULTURE industry is eyeing a new growth opportunity as rambutan, or shokishoki, emerges as a potential high-value crop for farmers and investors seeking new domestic and export markets.

With rambutan identified for commercial production in seven regions, the fruit could open a wider business ecosystem spanning farming, processing, packaging, cold storage, logistics and exports.

Still relatively unfamiliar to many mainland consumers, rambutan is already traded between Zanzibar and mainland markets.

Its existing trade, favourable growing conditions and potential access to premium international markets are now prompting interest in whether the crop can move from a largely informal business into an organised ...