The
investment climate has shown remarkable improvement since the introduction
of trade liberalization in 1985. A number of economic programmes have
been launched in collaboration with bilateral and multilateral
institutions. These programmes include the Economic Recovery Programmes
(ERP) and more recently the Economic and Social Advancement Programme
(ESAP).
As a
move towards opening up the economy, the government, in June 1990 passed
the National Investment (Promotion and Protection) Act of 1990 to create a
friendly environment for investors. The act provides (Part II) for
establishment of Tanzania investment Centre (TIC), which is now
functional.
Investment Guarantees.
The
trust of the country’s new policies emphasizes the importance of the
private sector. Foreign and local investors, including investors in
mining, are protected against nationalization. Property guarantees are
provided under the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) of
which Tanzania is a member. Tanzania is also a member of the international
Centre for settlements of Investment Disputes (ICSID), a body affiliated
of the world bank.
Settlement of disputes between a foreign investor and the Government or
Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) in respect of a business enterprise will
be through negotiations for an amicable settlement. A dispute, which is
not settled through negotiation, may be submitted to arbitration in
accordance with any of the following methods as may be mutually agreed by
the parties:
●Arbitration laws of Tanzania for investors.
●The
rules of procedure for arbitration of the International Centre for the
Settlement of investment Disputes (ICSID).
●Within the framework of any bilateral or multilateral
agreement
on
investment protection agreed to by the Government of the country from which the
investor originates.
The new open – door policy
has added
Tanzania on
to the list of countries that earn improved treatment by international
insurance agencies. Investment insurance coverage for approved projects
can normally be obtained from specialized government – chartered
organizations in the investor’s home country.