TANZANIA BREWERIES CALLS FOR COORDINATED ACTION AS TANZANIA CONFRONTS ILLICIT ALCOHOL RISKS

Michelle Kilpin, Managing Director of TBL.

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) has called for sustained and coordinated national action to combat the growing threat of illicit alcohol, warning that the issue continues to pose serious risks to public health, government revenue, and the sustainability of legitimate businesses.

The company commended ongoing government efforts to curb illicit trade, noting that recent enforcement operations targeting counterfeit and unregulated alcohol products signal a strengthened commitment to consumer protection and fair market practices.

A Widespread and Growing Concern

Illicit alcohol remains prevalent across Tanzania, accounting for a significant portion of total consumption. These unregulated products expose consumers to unsafe substances and place mounting pressure on healthcare systems, communities, and the formal economy.

From a public health standpoint, the risks are severe. Illicit alcohol is often produced without adherence to safety or quality standards, increasing the likelihood of contamination with harmful chemicals. The consequences can be devastating, including organ damage, blindness, and in extreme cases, death. Across communities, the impact is increasingly visible, with many Tanzanians reporting personal connections to victims of unsafe alcohol consumption.

Economic Impact and Revenue Loss

Beyond health concerns, the economic implications are substantial. Tanzania is estimated to lose more than TZS 1 trillion annually in uncollected tax revenue linked to illicit alcohol trade. This loss represents critical funding that could otherwise support healthcare services, strengthen education systems, and finance essential infrastructure projects.

At the same time, illicit trade distorts market dynamics. Licensed producers who comply with regulatory standards and contribute to national development face unfair competition from illegal operators who bypass compliance costs and undercut prices. This uneven playing field discourages investment and threatens jobs across the value chain—from farmers and manufacturers to distributors and retailers.

Call for Coordinated and Sustained Action

Michelle Kilpin, Managing Director of TBL, emphasized that addressing illicit alcohol requires a holistic and collaborative approach.

She noted that enforcement efforts must be complemented by consistent regulatory frameworks, predictable taxation policies, and increased awareness among both consumers and retailers.

According to Kilpin, tackling illicit alcohol is a shared responsibility involving government authorities, industry players, and the wider public. Each stakeholder has a role to play in reducing the availability of unsafe products while promoting responsible consumption practices.

Looking Ahead

While recent enforcement actions indicate progress, the scale and complexity of illicit alcohol trade in Tanzania demand sustained, long-term interventions. Affordability and accessibility remain key drivers of illicit consumption, particularly among lower-income populations where price disparities significantly influence purchasing decisions.

For TBL, the priority remains clear: maintaining the production of compliant, high-quality beverages while supporting initiatives that enhance consumer safety and public awareness.

As Tanzania continues to confront illicit trade, a unified approach will be essential to protect consumers, safeguard public health, and ensure a fair and competitive marketplace that supports sustainable economic growth.