Abstract:
This study identified and compared benefits available in the domestic and foreign markets for
possible exploitation by Tanzanian fish traders. The methodology used in this study was qualitative
in nature utilizing primary and secondary data collected through different tools and analyzed using
Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The study found varying benefits in both domestic
and foreign markets. In the domestic market, Tanzanian traders have advantage of high prices
for fish, less stringent standards and, very low level of competition, to mention few. Benefits from
the foreign markets are associated with very high potential for returns and profit as well as large
number of customers. Also, both markets have different investment opportunities which can be
beneficial to fish traders. It is concluded that instead of thinking of exploiting the foreign market
opportunities, Tanzanian fish traders must direct their efforts in serving the vast domestic market
which would become a stepping stone towards successful serving of the foreign markets. A number
of recommendations are provided including, formulation of policies to stimulate the consumption
of domestically produced products, fishermen to be trained and encouraged to use modern fishing
technology and support services to boost the quantity and quality of their catch, infrastructures to
and from fish rich areas to be improved in order to avoid high percentage of post-harvest losses, to
mention a few.
