DAR ES SALAAM, May 29 -- TANZANIAS industrial drive is beginning to shift the balance of trade, with new factories expected to reduce reliance on imported goods while expanding the countrys export capacity.

The shift is being driven by a new wave of factories producing electrical cables, protective clothing, veterinary medicines and construction materials, marking a gradual diversification beyond traditional industries such as cement, sugar and steel.

Officials say the expansion is aimed at strengthening local value addition and positioning manufacturing as a key pillar in export-led growth. Many of the factories are targeting markets across East and Southern Africa while seeking to reduce reliance on imported industrial goods.

Ministe...