Dar es Salaam, February 28, 2025
Green gram, also known as mung bean, is emerging as a key crop in Tanzania’s agricultural sector, offering significant economic and nutritional benefits to farmers and communities. Known for its high protein content, short growing cycle, and adaptability to arid conditions, green gram is increasingly becoming a staple in both local diets and international markets. With rising global demand for plant-based proteins and sustainable crops, Tanzania is positioning itself as a major producer and exporter of green gram in East Africa.
Current production and costs
Tanzania’s green gram production has seen steady growth over the past decade, driven by increasing demand from domestic and international markets. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the country produced approximately 200,000 metric tons of green gram in the 2023/2024 season, with the majority of cultivation concentrated in regions such as Dodoma, Singida, Tabora, and Shinyanga. These areas are well-suited for green gram farming due to their semi-arid climates and well-drained soils. Green gram is a valuable cash crop for smallholder farmers, providing a reliable source of income and improving food security. The crop’s short growing cycle of 60 to 90 days allows farmers to harvest multiple times a year, making it an attractive option for crop rotation and intercropping systems. Additionally, green gram requires minimal inputs compared to other crops, reducing production costs and making it accessible to resource-limited farmers.
Export Potential and Market Opportunities
Tanzania’s green gram has gained recognition for its high quality, with the country exporting significant quantities to markets in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. India, Pakistan, and China are among the largest importers of Tanzanian green gram, driven by the crop’s use in traditional dishes and its growing popularity as a health food. In 2024, Tanzania exported over 50,000 metric tons of green gram, generating approximately $50 million in revenue.
The Tanzanian government, in collaboration with private sector stakeholders, is working to further expand the export potential of green gram. Initiatives such as the National Pulses Development Strategy aim to increase production, improve quality standards, and enhance market access for Tanzanian green gram. The strategy focuses on providing farmers with improved seeds, training on best agronomic practices, and access to reliable markets.
Despite its potential, green gram production in Tanzania faces several challenges. Limited access to quality seeds, inadequate storage facilities, and post-harvest losses due to pests and poor handling remain significant barriers. Additionally, fluctuating global prices and competition from other green gram-producing countries, such as Myanmar and Ethiopia, pose challenges for Tanzanian exporters.
To address these issues, the government and development partners are investing in research and development to produce high-yielding and disease-resistant green gram varieties. Efforts are also underway to improve infrastructure, such as storage facilities and transportation networks, to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure timely delivery to markets. Green gram is increasingly recognized as a climate-smart crop due to its drought tolerance and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This makes it an ideal crop for sustainable farming systems and a key component of Tanzania’s efforts to promote climate-resilient agriculture. Farmers are being encouraged to adopt conservation agriculture practices, such as intercropping green gram with maize or sorghum, to maximize land use and improve yields. These practices not only enhance productivity but also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing soil erosion and improving water retention.
Future Outlook
The future of green gram production in Tanzania looks promising, with the government targeting a 20% increase in production by 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by increased investment in research, improved access to markets, and the adoption of modern farming technologies.
As global demand for plant-based proteins continues to rise, Tanzania is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and establish itself as a leading producer and exporter of green gram. With the right policies, investments, and partnerships, green gram has the potential to transform the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers and contribute significantly to Tanzania’s economic development.
LICO Global, a leading agricultural exporter in Tanzania, is well-positioned to supply high-quality green gram to global markets. With a strong network of farmers, state-of-the-art processing facilities, and a commitment to sustainability, LICO Global is poised to meet the growing demand for Tanzanian mung beans. The company’s focus on quality assurance, traceability, and fair trade practices ensures that its green gram meets international standards, making it a preferred supplier for buyers worldwide. As Tanzania continues to strengthen its position in the global green gram market, LICO Global stands ready to play a pivotal role in connecting Tanzanian farmers with international markets, driving economic growth, and promoting sustainable agriculture.