By: Logistics update Africa

The East Africa Commercial and Logistics Center (EACLC), a Chinese-built trade hub in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is gaining traction as a regional platform for wholesale trade and logistics. Located in the Ubungo area on the outskirts of the port city, the centre brings together showrooms, warehousing, customs support, shipping coordination, and business services under one roof. It is designed to reduce trade bottlenecks and improve efficiency in cross-border commerce involving Tanzania, China, and neighbouring African markets.

Local traders report that the facility is reshaping trading patterns. Ayoub Katuga, Managing Director of Ascon Africa, stated that operating from the centre has transformed his wholesale clothing business. Since opening his first outlet in August, he has expanded operations, now serving clients from Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda.

Technology firms are also establishing a presence. Wawlyn Limited, which specialises in wearable and smart devices, began operations at the centre in early August. Store manager Esther Benedictor Patrick noted that the location supports the company’s pan-African expansion strategy.

Chinese enterprises are similarly expanding. MAFC, a company dealing in furniture, lighting, and building materials, officially opened its showroom in October. Company representative Wang Xinggang cited Tanzania’s strategic location, port access, and development potential as key factors behind the investment.

According to EACLC General Manager Cathy Wang, the centre was developed to address inefficiencies in China–Africa trade. "Our original intention was to build a simpler, more efficient and safer trade platform," she said. The facility is designed as a two-way trade gateway that integrates supply chain coordination, smart warehousing, and cross-border logistics, moving away from a fragmented, small-scale operational model.

The centre currently hosts merchants from China, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Somalia. Traded products include construction materials, machinery, electronics, textiles, and consumer goods. Future plans involve expanding digital capabilities, such as smart warehousing systems and real-time inventory tracking, to further streamline merchant operations.

Beyond commerce, the centre has facilitated Tanzanian participation in trade exhibitions in China and supported Chinese firms at Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair, reflecting its growing role in broader China–Africa economic cooperation.