Chimi Group Expands Global Reach with New Export Destinations
In Dar es Salaam, a Tanzanian agribusiness company is making significant strides in the global fresh produce trade. The Chimi Group Company Limited, founded and led by Ms. Rose Chimilila, is setting its sights on Dubai and India as the next export destinations. This strategic move aims to expand its footprint and tap into new markets.
Currently, the company exports a variety of products including Hass avocados, kidney beans, white maize, and peas. These are sourced directly from smallholder farmers across Tanzania. By working closely with these farmers, Chimi Group ensures quality and consistency while also empowering them to earn better incomes.
To access global markets, the company has partnered with export-certified firms that already hold European trade credentials. However, Ms. Chimilila highlights that acquiring such certifications remains a significant hurdle for small but growing agribusinesses. For instance, obtaining export and compliance certifications like the Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit (SMETA) can cost around $5,000, which is quite expensive for a company of their size. SMETA is a globally recognized audit that assesses ethical business practices, labor standards, and environmental management.
To navigate these challenges, Chimi Group is strategically focusing on markets in Dubai and India, where export documentation requirements are less stringent and provide more accessible entry points for emerging exporters. The company aims to identify direct buyers in these markets to reduce its reliance on intermediaries. This approach allows for sustainable growth while maintaining quality control across the supply chain.
Before establishing direct export routes, Chimi Group has been using agents to ensure Tanzanian-grown produce reaches international buyers. Ms. Chimilila began her agribusiness journey in 2021 when she launched Chimi Fresh Produce, initially focusing on Irish potatoes for the domestic market. Within a year, production grew from 10 to over 30 metric tonnes per month, paving the way for regional exports across East Africa.
By 2023, the enterprise had evolved into Chimi Group Company Limited, expanding its product range to include avocados, beans, maize, bananas, and pulses. “Today, the company exports hundreds of tonnes of produce each season, from December to August,” she said. From sourcing and processing to packaging and export, Chimi Group manages the entire value chain to ensure quality, traceability, and timely delivery.
Beyond export activities, the company invests in farmer empowerment programs, including training, contract farming, and improved market access. Although expansion has been gradual due to limited financing, Ms. Chimilila remains optimistic about the company’s prospects. “Our vision is to build a sustainable and inclusive agribusiness that uplifts farmers’ livelihoods while delivering fresh, high-quality produce to consumers across regional and international markets,” she said.
Chimi Group’s focus on Asia aligns with Tanzania’s broader efforts to diversify export destinations and tap into high-demand markets for tropical produce. Industry observers note that as global consumers increasingly prioritize ethically sourced and traceable products, Tanzanian agribusinesses like Chimi Group stand to gain from the country’s fertile climate, growing production base, and improving logistics infrastructure.
Strategic Market Expansion
- Dubai and India: These markets offer less stringent export documentation requirements, making them more accessible for emerging exporters.
- Direct Buyers: By targeting direct buyers, Chimi Group aims to reduce reliance on intermediaries, enhancing control over the supply chain.
- Sustainability: The company’s approach emphasizes sustainable growth while maintaining quality standards.
Future Prospects
- Farmer Empowerment: The company invests in training and contract farming to support smallholder farmers.
- Market Access: Improved market access is a key focus, helping farmers achieve better incomes.
- Logistics Infrastructure: Enhancing logistics infrastructure is crucial for the company’s long-term success.