TICGL

| Economic Consulting Group

TICGL | Economic Consulting Group

The Bank of Tanzania’s August 2025 review shows that government domestic debt stood at TZS 35,351.4 billion in July 2025, a slight decline of 0.4% from June’s TZS 35,502.8 billion, mainly due to reduced overdraft use. The debt structure remains dominated by Treasury bonds (79.7%), reflecting a preference for long-term financing. By creditor category, commercial banks (28.8%) and pension funds (26.4%) together held more than half of the stock, while the Bank of Tanzania accounted for 19.2%. Other contributors included public institutions, firms, and individuals (18.3%), insurance companies (5.1%), and BoT’s special funds (2.2%). This composition highlights the critical role of institutional investors in supporting government financing while aligning with fiscal consolidation efforts that produced a budget surplus of TZS 403.4 billion in June 2025.

1. Government Domestic Debt Stock (July 2025)

2. Government Domestic Debt by Creditor (July 2025)

Table: Government Domestic Debt by Creditor Category (July 2025)

Creditor CategoryAmount (TZS Billion)Share (%)
Commercial Banks10,176.328.8
Pension Funds9,328.826.4
Bank of Tanzania (BoT)6,799.319.2
Other Creditors6,461.318.3
Insurance Companies1,808.45.1
BoT’s Special Funds777.32.2
Total35,351.4100

Economic Implications of Government Domestic Debt – July 2025

1. Government Domestic Debt Stock (July 2025)

2. Government Domestic Debt by Creditor (July 2025)

Summary of Broader Economic Significance

The Bank of Tanzania’s August 2025 review shows that lending and deposit rates continued to adjust in response to the accommodative monetary policy stance. Lending rates eased slightly, with the overall rate at 15.16% in July 2025 (down from 15.23% in June), while short-term lending declined to 15.51% and negotiated prime customer loans to 12.56%. On the deposit side, rates for time deposits increased modestly, with the 12-month rate reaching 9.88%, while negotiated deposits for large savers fell to 10.72%. The spread between short-term lending and deposit rates narrowed to 5.63 percentage points from 6.66 points a year earlier, signaling lower borrowing costs relative to savings returns and supporting private sector credit growth of 15.9% annually.

1. Lending Interest Rates

2. Deposit Interest Rates

3. Interest Rate Spread

Table: Lending and Deposit Interest Rates (July 2025)

CategoryJune 2025 (%)July 2025 (%)Change
Lending Rates
Overall Lending Rate15.2315.16-0.07
Short-Term Lending Rate (≤ 1 yr)15.6915.51-0.18
Negotiated Lending Rate12.6812.56-0.12
Deposit Rates
Overall Deposit Rate8.748.83+0.09
12-Month Deposit Rate9.799.88+0.09
Negotiated Deposit Rate11.2110.72-0.49
Savings Deposit Rate2.902.900.00
Interest Rate Spread5.63 (vs. 6.66 in 2024)Narrowed

Economic Implications of Lending and Deposit Interest Rates – July 2025

1. Lending Interest Rates

2. Deposit Interest Rates

3. Interest Rate Spread

Summary of Broader Economic Significance

The Bank of Tanzania’s August 2025 Monthly Economic Review shows that the financial market remained highly liquid in July 2025, supported by the recent reduction of the Central Bank Rate (CBR) to 5.75%. Government securities were in strong demand, with Treasury bill auctions oversubscribed nearly threefold (TZS 452.1 billion bids vs. TZS 162.0 billion offered) and a decline in the weighted average yield to 8.13% from 8.89% in June. In the bond market, investor preference shifted toward longer maturities, with the 10-year bond oversubscribed at a yield of 13.74%, while shorter tenors recorded slight yield increases. Meanwhile, interbank cash market (IBCM) activity surged, with turnover rising by 30% to TZS 3,746 billion, dominated by 7-day deals, while the average rate eased to 6.62% (from 7.93%), reflecting improved banking sector liquidity and effective monetary policy transmission.

1. Government Securities Market

2. Interbank Cash Market (IBCM)

Table 1: Treasury Bills Auction (July 2025)

IndicatorAmount / Rate
Amount OfferedTZS 162.0 billion
Bids ReceivedTZS 452.1 billion
Successful BidsTZS 158.9 billion
Oversubscription Ratio2.8x
Weighted Average Yield (WAY)8.13% (vs. 8.89% in Jun 2025)

Table 2: Treasury Bonds Auctions (July 2025)

Bond TenorTender Size (TZS Billion)Bids Received (TZS Billion)Accepted (TZS Billion)Yield (%)Investor Demand
2-Year117.0512.17 ↑Undersubscribed
5-Year136.2013.18 ↑Undersubscribed
10-Year162.8013.74 ↓Oversubscribed
Total416.05396.4351.9Strong demand

(Arrows indicate direction vs. June 2025 yields)

Table 3: Interbank Cash Market (IBCM), July 2025

IndicatorJune 2025July 2025Change
Total Turnover (TZS Billion)2,873.93,746.0+30%
Dominant Deal Type7-day (≈66%)7-day (65.9%)
Overall IBCM Rate (%)7.936.62-1.31
Policy Corridor (CBR range)3.75% – 7.75%3.75% – 7.75%

Economic Implications of the Financial Market Data (Government Securities and IBCM)

1. Government Securities Market

Government securities (Treasury bills and bonds) are key tools for the BOT and government to manage liquidity, finance budgets, and signal interest rate expectations. The July 2025 data shows strong demand overall, but with nuanced shifts in investor preferences.

Overall, for Government Securities:

2. Interbank Cash Market (IBCM)

The IBCM is a short-term lending market among banks, crucial for liquidity management and transmitting BOT policy signals. It operates within the CBR corridor (3.75%-7.75% in July).

Summary of Broader Economic Significance

As of June 2025, the Tanzania Shilling (TZS) depreciated by 9.6% year-on-year against the US dollar, from 2,345.38 (June 2024) to 2,569.46, reflecting sustained import demand, foreign currency shortages, and global USD strength. Despite this, the monthly change was only -0.2%, signaling short-term exchange rate stability. The Bureau de Change market showed a tight spread (Buy: 2,574.33 / Sell: 2,582.67), reinforcing retail-level confidence. The Shilling also weakened against other major currencies: EUR (-10.4%), GBP (-9.7%), CNY (-10.2%), and JPY (-10.3%). Meanwhile, BoT interventions (e.g., USD 7 million in January) and robust foreign reserves (USD 5.3 billion, 4.3 months import cover) helped maintain market orderliness. However, strong imports (e.g., Zanzibar: USD 459.5 million, driven by infrastructure goods) and falling exports (e.g., cloves: -27.2%) kept pressure on the TZS. To counter depreciation risks, policy must focus on export diversification, import substitution, and regional trade resilience.

1. Overview: Exchange Rate Performance (as of June 2025)

The Tanzanian Shilling’s exchange rate performance reflects its value against major currencies in the Interbank Foreign Exchange Market (IFEM) and Bureau de Change markets, influenced by domestic and global economic factors.

2. Other Currency Exchange Rates (June 2025)

The TZS’s performance against other major currencies provides a broader view of its depreciation trend.

CurrencyTZS per Unit% Change (Y-o-Y)
USD2,569.46-9.6%
EUR2,763.91-10.4%
GBP3,248.65-9.7%
JPY (100 units)1,617.18-10.3%
CNY353.77-10.2%

3. Forex Market Activity

Forex market activity in the IFEM reflects demand and supply dynamics for foreign exchange, influencing TZS stability.

Summary Table: TZS Exchange Rate Trends

ItemJune 2024June 2025% Change
USD/TZS (official)2,345.382,569.46-9.6%
EUR/TZS~2,5032,763.91-10.4%
GBP/TZS~2,9613,248.65-9.7%
CNY/TZS~320.9353.77-10.2%

Key Insights and Policy Implications

  1. Moderate Depreciation:
    • The TZS’s 9.6% depreciation against the USD and 9.7%–10.4% against other currencies reflects structural import reliance and global USD strength. However, the -0.2% monthly change from May to June 2025 indicates short-term stability, supported by BoT interventions.
    • Policy: Enhance export diversification (e.g., seafood, manufactured goods) to boost forex inflows, as per Zanzibar’s USD 2 billion plan. Leverage AfCFTA to expand markets.
  2. Market Stability:
    • The orderly, market-driven TZS performance, with no sharp volatility, aligns with earlier stabilization (e.g., 0.28% appreciation in October 2024). Robust reserves (USD 5,307.7 million) and a liquid IFEM (USD 65.4 million volume) support confidence.
    • Policy: Continue BoT interventions (e.g., USD sales) and reserve accumulation to manage seasonal pressures, as seen in January 2025.
  3. Import-Driven Pressures:
    • Strong import demand (USD 459.5 million in Zanzibar, Mainland capital goods) outpaced export growth, driving depreciation. Zanzibar’s 27.2% clove export drop exacerbated pressures.
    • Policy: Promote import substitution (e.g., local manufacturing) and agricultural productivity to reduce reliance on imported goods, aligning with Vision 2050.
  4. Global and Regional Context:
    • The TZS’s depreciation mirrors regional trends (e.g., Kenya’s 9% depreciation in 2024), but Tanzania’s stability contrasts with Burundi’s significant depreciation. Global USD strength, driven by U.S. policy, impacts emerging markets broadly.
    • Policy: Strengthen trade ties with EAC partners (e.g., Rwanda, Uganda) to stabilize TZS against regional currencies.
  5. Economic Impacts:
    • Debt Servicing: With 68.1% of external debt in USD (USD 33,905.1 million), depreciation raises servicing costs, absorbing ~40% of government expenditures.
    • Inflation: Depreciation contributed to Zanzibar’s 3.4% inflation (June 2025) and Mainland’s 3.2% (May 2025), driven by imported goods like petroleum.
    • Trade Competitiveness: Depreciation enhances export competitiveness (e.g., gold, cashew nuts), but falling clove exports limit gains.
    • Policy: Maintain the 6% Central Bank Rate to control inflation (3%–4% target in 2025) and explore debt restructuring to ease USD pressures.
  6. Economic Context:
    • GDP Growth: Tanzania’s 5.6% growth in 2024 and projected 6% in 2025 support export performance, driven by tourism (2.2 million arrivals) and infrastructure.
    • Reserves: USD 5,307.7 million (4.3 months of import cover) provide a buffer against volatility, up from USD 5,323.6 million in January 2025.
    • Risks: Global commodity price volatility, USD strength, and election-related uncertainties (October 2025) pose risks to TZS stability.
    • Opportunities: Tourism receipts (USD 6,948.2 million), FDI (USD 3.7 billion in 2025), and IMF disbursements (USD 148.6 million in 2024) support forex inflows.

In June 2025, Tanzania’s government securities market demonstrated strong investor confidence, with TZS 1.23 trillion in bids received for Treasury bonds—nearly double the TZS 638.7 billion on offer—indicating a 93% oversubscription rate. The BoT selectively accepted TZS 322.4 billion to manage borrowing costs, with yields of 14.50% for 20-year bonds and 14.80% for 25-year bonds, reflecting inflation expectations and long-term risk premiums. Notably, no Treasury bills were issued, signaling the government’s strong cash position and preference for long-term financing. Meanwhile, the interbank cash market (IBCM) remained active and stable, with TZS 2.87 trillion in transactions—up 125% year-on-year—and a marginally lower average rate of 7.93%, indicating healthy liquidity and effective monetary policy transmission by the BoT.

Government Securities Market and the Interbank Cash Market June

1. Government Securities Market

The Government Securities Market in Tanzania serves as a cornerstone for domestic financing, allowing the government to raise funds for budgetary needs while providing investors with secure, long-term investment opportunities. The market primarily consists of Treasury bonds (long-term securities) and Treasury bills (short-term securities). In June 2025, the market dynamics reflected strategic fiscal management and strong investor confidence.

Treasury Bonds

Treasury bonds are long-term debt instruments issued by the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) on behalf of the government to finance fiscal deficits and infrastructure projects. The bonds are typically offered with maturities ranging from 2 to 25 years, and their yields are influenced by market demand, inflation expectations, and monetary policy conditions.

Treasury Bills

Treasury bills are short-term securities (typically with maturities of 35, 91, 182, or 364 days) used to manage short-term liquidity needs of the government. Unlike Treasury bonds, no auctions for Treasury bills were held in June 2025.

2. Interbank Cash Market (IBCM)

The Interbank Cash Market (IBCM) is a critical component of Tanzania’s financial system, enabling banks to lend and borrow short-term funds to manage liquidity. It supports monetary policy transmission by ensuring banks have access to liquidity, which influences credit availability and economic activity.

Transactions

Interest Rates

Summary Table

IndicatorJune 2024May 2025June 2025
Treasury bond auctions heldYesYesYes
Treasury bill auctions heldYesYesNone
Total T-bond tenders (TZS)--1,232.9 billion
Total T-bond accepted (TZS)--322.4 billion
Yield - 20-year bond--14.50%
Yield - 25-year bond--14.80%
IBCM turnover (TZS)1,277.6 billion3,267 billion2,873.9 billion
IBCM interest rate-7.98%7.93%

Insights and Broader Implications

  1. Robust Demand for Government Securities:
    • The oversubscription of Treasury bond auctions (TZS 1,232.9 billion in tenders vs. TZS 638.7 billion offered) reflects strong investor confidence in Tanzania’s fiscal and monetary policy framework. This demand is likely driven by institutional investors seeking stable, high-yield assets amid global economic uncertainties.
    • The high yields (14.50% for 20-year and 14.80% for 25-year bonds) indicate that investors are pricing in inflation risks and long-term uncertainties, but the oversubscription suggests these yields are competitive compared to alternative investments.
  2. Fiscal Prudence in Treasury Bill Strategy:
    • The absence of Treasury bill auctions in June 2025 signals that the government has effectively managed its short-term financing needs, possibly through higher-than-expected revenue collection or earlier borrowing. This reduces rollover risks and borrowing costs, contributing to fiscal sustainability.
    • The focus on long-term bonds aligns with Tanzania’s development agenda, prioritizing investments in infrastructure and other capital-intensive projects.
  3. Healthy Interbank Market:
    • The IBCM’s high turnover (TZS 2,873.9 billion) and stable interest rates (7.93%) indicate a well-functioning banking system with adequate liquidity. The dominance of overnight and 7-day tenors suggests banks are managing liquidity efficiently, balancing short-term needs with operational flexibility.
    • The slight decline in IBCM rates from May to June 2025 reflects a stable monetary environment, supported by the BoT’s effective liquidity management tools, such as open market operations and reserve requirements.
  4. Monetary Policy Transmission:
    • The active IBCM and stable interest rates facilitate the transmission of the BoT’s monetary policy, ensuring that changes in the policy rate (e.g., CBR) influence lending and borrowing behavior across the economy.
    • The high turnover in the IBCM compared to June 2024 (125% increase) suggests growing economic activity and banking sector confidence, which supports credit creation and private sector growth.
  5. Economic Context:
    • Tanzania’s financial markets are operating in a context of steady economic growth, with the BoT projecting GDP growth of around 5.5%–6% for 2025, driven by sectors like agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.
    • Inflation remains a key consideration, with the BoT targeting a range of 3%–5%. The high bond yields and stable IBCM rates suggest that inflationary pressures are manageable but warrant close monitoring.

Stability in Lending, Competitive Deposit Market, and a Narrowing Spread Signal Sector Efficiency

In June 2025, Tanzania’s banking sector exhibited notable stability and competitiveness. The overall lending rate held steady at 15.23%, slightly up from May, while short-term lending rates eased from 15.96% to 15.69%, reflecting increased liquidity and competition. Deposit rates rose across the board, with the negotiated deposit rate jumping from 10.64% to 11.21%, driven by end-of-year liquidity needs. Importantly, the short-term interest rate spread narrowed to 5.90%, down from 6.49% in June 2024, indicating improved efficiency and a more competitive banking environment benefiting both borrowers and depositors.

1. Lending Interest Rates

Lending interest rates represent the cost of borrowing from commercial banks and are influenced by factors such as the Bank of Tanzania’s (BoT) monetary policy, liquidity conditions, credit risk, and competition in the banking sector. In June 2025, lending rates remained broadly stable, with minor fluctuations reflecting market dynamics.

Key Lending Rates

The following table summarizes the lending rates for May and June 2025, with changes noted:

Type of Lending RateMay 2025June 2025Change
Overall Lending Rate15.18%15.23%↑ +0.05%
Short-Term Lending Rate15.96%15.69%↓ -0.27%
Negotiated Lending Rate12.99%12.68%↓ -0.31%

Context and Insights:

2. Deposit Interest Rates

Deposit interest rates reflect the returns banks offer to depositors for savings, time deposits, and other accounts. These rates are influenced by liquidity needs, competition for deposits, and the BoT’s monetary policy. In June 2025, deposit rates generally increased, driven by seasonal liquidity demands at the end of the financial year.

Key Deposit Rates

The following table summarizes the deposit rates for May and June 2025, with changes noted:

Type of Deposit RateMay 2025June 2025Change
Overall Time Deposit Rate8.58%8.74%↑ +0.16%
12-Month Deposit Rate9.72%9.79%↑ +0.07%
Negotiated Deposit Rate10.64%11.21%↑ +0.57%
Savings Deposit Rate2.52%2.90%↑ +0.38%

Context and Insights:

3. Interest Rate Spread

The interest rate spread is the difference between lending and deposit rates, typically measured for short-term instruments to reflect banking efficiency and profitability. A narrower spread indicates improved financial intermediation and a more competitive banking environment.

Context and Insights:

Summary Table

IndicatorJune 2024May 2025June 2025
Overall Lending Rate15.30%15.18%15.23%
Short-Term Lending Rate15.57%15.96%15.69%
Negotiated Lending Rate12.82%12.99%12.68%
Overall Time Deposit Rate7.66%8.58%8.74%
12-Month Deposit Rate9.09%9.72%9.79%
Negotiated Deposit Rate9.86%10.64%11.21%
Savings Deposit Rate2.86%2.52%2.90%
Short-Term Interest Rate Spread6.49%6.24%5.90%

Key Insights and Broader Implications

  1. Stable Lending Environment:
    • The overall lending rate’s stability (15.23% in June 2025) and slight year-on-year decline (from 15.30% in June 2024) suggest that credit risk perceptions have not worsened, despite high rates. This stability supports private sector borrowing, particularly for large firms benefiting from lower negotiated rates (12.68%).
    • The decrease in short-term lending rates (15.69%) reflects competitive pressures and ample liquidity, as evidenced by the IBCM’s high turnover and lower rates. These benefits businesses seeking working capital loans, supporting sectors like trade and agriculture.
  2. Rising Deposit Rates:
    • The increase in deposit rates, particularly the negotiated rate (11.21%), reflects banks’ efforts to attract funds to meet liquidity needs at the financial year-end. This aligns with the absence of Treasury bill auctions in June 2025, which may have increased banks’ reliance on deposits for liquidity.
    • Higher deposit rates encourage savings, strengthening banks’ funding base. However, the low savings deposit rate (2.90%) indicates limited benefits for retail depositors, potentially constraining household savings growth.
  3. Narrowing Interest Rate Spread:
    • The narrowing spread (5.90% in June 2025) is a positive signal for Tanzania’s banking sector, indicating improved efficiency and competition. This benefits borrowers through lower borrowing costs and depositors through higher returns, fostering financial inclusion and economic activity.
    • The spread’s decline from 6.49% in June 2024 suggests structural improvements in the banking sector, possibly driven by technological advancements, regulatory reforms, or increased market participation.
  4. Monetary Policy Context:
    • The BoT’s monetary policy likely played a role in stabilizing lending rates and supporting liquidity, as seen in the IBCM’s performance. The CBR, while not specified, is likely set to balance inflation (targeted at 3%–5%) and growth (projected at 5.5%–6% for 2025).
    • The rise in deposit rates and narrowing spread suggest the BoT’s liquidity management tools (e.g., open market operations, reserve requirements) are effective in maintaining a stable financial environment.
  5. Economic Implications:
    • The trends in lending and deposit rates support Tanzania’s economic growth by facilitating credit access and encouraging savings. However, high lending rates (15.23% overall) may limit SME borrowing, a critical driver of employment and growth.
    • The competitive banking environment, as evidenced by the narrowing spread, could attract more players to the financial sector, enhancing financial inclusion and supporting Tanzania’s Development Vision 2025 goals.

Debt Structure, Shilling and Figures

As of May 2025, Tanzania’s national debt stood at TZS 107.70 trillion, comprising TZS 72.94 trillion in external debt and TZS 34.76 trillion in domestic debt. The external debt stock, equivalent to approximately USD 34.1 billion (using an exchange rate of TZS 2,884.42 per USD from April 2025), was primarily held by multilateral institutions and directed toward key sectors such as transportation (21.5%) and telecommunications. The central government accounted for 78.3% of external debt (USD 26.7 billion), with 67.7% of this debt denominated in US dollars (USD 23.1 billion). Domestic debt, at TZS 34.26 trillion in March 2025, was largely financed by commercial banks (29%) and pension funds (26.5%), with Treasury bonds dominating at 78.2%.

In May 2025, principal repayments on external debt amounted to USD 267 million. Debt servicing costs are significant, with historical data indicating that external debt servicing consumed up to 40% of government expenditures in earlier years. For 2023, total debt service was 2.89% of Gross National Income (GNI), and in 2025, servicing the external debt (at concessional rates) and domestic debt (at 15.5% lending rates) could cost approximately USD 1–2 billion and TZS 5.31 trillion annually, respectively. These costs divert resources from productive investments, potentially straining fiscal space.

Impact on the Tanzania Shilling

The Tanzania Shilling’s stability in May 2025 is supported by several factors related to debt management and economic performance:

Despite these stabilizing factors, the Shilling experienced a 3.86% annual depreciation against the USD, trading at TZS 2,884.42 per USD in April 2025. This depreciation, though improved from the previous month, reflects pressures from external debt servicing and import demands. The high USD denomination of external debt (67.7%) exacerbates these pressures, as a depreciating Shilling increases the local currency cost of debt servicing by approximately TZS 2.37 trillion for the USD 34.1 billion external debt, based on a 2.6% depreciation rate.

Foreign Exchange Interventions and Their Role

The BoT’s interventions in the Interbank Foreign Exchange Market (IFEM) have been critical to maintaining the Shilling’s stability. In January 2025, the BoT sold USD 7 million to stabilize the exchange rate, preventing excessive depreciation amid a 1.37% month-on-month weakening of the Shilling (from TZS 2,420.84 to TZS 2,454.04 per USD). Similar interventions likely occurred in April and May 2025, as the document notes that seasonal inflows from cash crops and gold exports, combined with BoT actions, mitigated depreciation pressures. However, IFEM transactions declined significantly from USD 95.7 million in December 2024 to USD 16.3 million in January 2025, suggesting reduced market activity, possibly due to lower trade or investor participation.

These interventions, supported by adequate reserves, have ensured short-term stability, with the Shilling appreciating by 2.6% year-on-year from January 2024 to January 2025. The BoT’s ability to intervene is bolstered by improved current account performance, with the deficit narrowing by 31.1% to USD 2,021.5 million in the year ending January 2025, driven by strong export earnings and moderate import growth.

Potential Risks to Long-Term Shilling Stability

The composition of Tanzania’s external debt and reliance on commodity-driven inflows pose several risks to the Shilling’s long-term stability:

  1. High USD Denomination of External Debt: With 67.7% of the USD 34.1 billion external debt denominated in US dollars (USD 23.1 billion), the Shilling is highly exposed to exchange rate fluctuations. A further depreciation, such as the 2.6% observed in 2024, increases debt servicing costs in local currency, potentially requiring the BoT to draw down reserves or increase borrowing, both of which could weaken the Shilling.
  2. Commodity Price Volatility: Tanzania’s foreign exchange inflows heavily depend on gold and agricultural exports (e.g., cashew nuts, coffee). While gold prices were strong at USD 2,983.25 per ounce in March 2025, declines in coffee (-2%) and sugar (-1.5%) prices highlight vulnerability to global commodity market fluctuations. A downturn in gold prices or reduced export demand could strain reserves and pressure the Shilling.
  3. Global Economic Uncertainties: The document highlights risks from global trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions, with the IMF projecting global growth at 2.8% in 2025. Rising global interest rates could increase external borrowing costs, particularly for non-concessional loans, further straining fiscal resources and reserves needed to stabilize the Shilling.
  4. Fiscal Constraints and Crowding-Out Effects: High domestic borrowing (TZS 34.26 trillion) and lending rates (15.5%) crowd out private sector investment, weakening credit growth and economic diversification. This limits the economy’s ability to generate sustainable foreign exchange inflows, increasing reliance on volatile commodity exports and BoT interventions.
  5. Climate and Structural Risks: Climate change could reduce agricultural output, a key export sector, with the World Bank estimating a potential 4% GDP growth reduction by 2050 due to climate impacts. Slow structural transformation and shallow financial markets further constrain Tanzania’s ability to diversify revenue sources, heightening Shilling vulnerability.

Mitigating Factors and Policy Measures

Tanzania’s authorities are implementing measures to mitigate these risks:

Conclusion

In May 2025, Tanzania’s national debt developments and foreign exchange interventions have supported the Tanzania Shilling’s short-term stability, with reserves of USD 5,360 million (4.2 months of import cover) and export-driven inflows mitigating a 3.86% annual depreciation. BoT interventions in the IFEM, backed by strong gold and cashew nut exports, have prevented sharp fluctuations, maintaining the Shilling at TZS 2,884.42 per USD in April 2025. However, the high USD denomination of external debt (67.7% of USD 34.1 billion), reliance on volatile commodity exports, and global uncertainties pose risks to long-term stability. A potential further depreciation could increase debt servicing costs by TZS 2.37 trillion, straining reserves and fiscal space. Continued prudent fiscal and monetary policies, alongside diversification efforts, are critical to sustaining Shilling stability and supporting Tanzania’s projected 6% GDP growth in 2025.

Table: Key Economic Figures Impacting Tanzania Shilling Stability (May 2025)

IndicatorValueNotes
Total National DebtTZS 107.70 trillionComprises TZS 72.94 trillion external debt and TZS 34.76 trillion domestic debt.
External Debt StockUSD 34.1 billion (TZS 72.94 trillion)78.3% held by central government; 67.7% denominated in USD (USD 23.1 billion).
Domestic Debt StockTZS 34.26 trillion78.2% in Treasury bonds; 29% financed by commercial banks, 26.5% by pension funds.
External Debt Principal RepaymentsUSD 267 millionFor May 2025, part of annual debt servicing (~USD 1–2 billion).
Foreign Exchange ReservesUSD 5,360 millionCovers 4.2 months of imports, exceeding the 4-month national benchmark.
Foreign Exchange Reserves (Mar 2025)USD 5,700 millionCovers 3.8 months of imports, indicating sustained adequacy.
Exchange Rate (Apr 2025)TZS 2,884.42 per USDAnnual depreciation of 3.86%, improved from the previous month.
Exchange Rate Depreciation (Annual)3.86%Driven by debt servicing and import demands; mitigated by BoT interventions.
Exchange Rate (Jan 2025)TZS 2,454.04 per USD2.6% appreciation from Jan 2024, supported by USD 7 million BoT intervention.
IFEM Transactions (Jan 2025)USD 16.3 millionDown from USD 95.7 million in Dec 2024, indicating reduced market activity.
Export Value (Year ending Apr 2025)USD 16.7 billion16.8% increase, driven by gold (24.5% rise) and cashew nuts (141% rise).
Gold Price (Mar 2025)USD 2,983.25 per ounceBolsters foreign exchange inflows, supporting Shilling stability.
Current Account Deficit (Year ending May 2025)USD 2,175 millionNarrowed by 31.1% from USD 2,866 million in 2024, due to export growth.
Inflation Rate (May 2025)3.2%Stable, below BoT’s 5% target, reducing pressure on the Shilling.
Central Bank Rate (Apr 2025)6%Maintained to safeguard against trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions.
Debt Servicing Cost (Estimated, 2025)USD 1–2 billion (External), TZS 5.31 trillion (Domestic)Based on 2.89% of GNI (2023) and 15.5% domestic lending rates.

Notes and Explanations

  1. Debt Figures: The total national debt (TZS 107.70 trillion) and its breakdown into external (USD 34.1 billion) and domestic (TZS 34.26 trillion) components reflect Tanzania’s borrowing profile. The high USD denomination (67.7%) of external debt increases vulnerability to exchange rate fluctuations, as a 2.6% depreciation could raise servicing costs by approximately TZS 2.37 trillion (calculated as 2.6% of TZS 72.94 trillion).
  2. Foreign Exchange Reserves: Reserves of USD 5,360 million in May 2025 and USD 5,700 million in March 2025 provide a buffer for debt servicing and exchange rate stabilization. The 4.2-month import cover exceeds the national benchmark, supporting short-term Shilling stability.
  3. Exchange Rate: The Shilling’s depreciation to TZS 2,884.42 per USD reflects pressures from debt servicing and imports, mitigated by BoT interventions (e.g., USD 7 million sale in January 2025). The 2.6% appreciation from January 2024 to January 2025 indicates effective short-term management.
  4. Export Performance: Strong export growth (USD 16.7 billion, up 16.8%) driven by gold and cashew nuts bolsters foreign exchange inflows, critical for reserve accumulation and Shilling stability. Gold’s high price (USD 2,983.25 per ounce) is a key factor but introduces volatility risk.
  5. Current Account and Inflation: The narrowed current account deficit (USD 2,175 million) and low inflation (3.2%) reduce pressure on the Shilling, supporting its purchasing power and import affordability.
  6. Debt Servicing Costs: Estimated based on historical data (2.89% of GNI in 2023) and domestic lending rates (15.5%). These costs strain fiscal resources, potentially requiring reserve drawdowns or further borrowing, which could weaken the Shilling.

This table provides a concise overview of the key figures driving the Tanzania Shilling’s stability in May 2025, highlighting the interplay between debt developments, foreign exchange interventions, and external sector performance, as well as underlying risks from debt composition and commodity reliance.

As of February 28, 2025, the Bank of Tanzania’s total assets grew by 3.18%, reaching TZS 26.05 trillion, up from TZS 25.24 trillion in January. This growth was driven by a 15% increase in cash reserves (TZS 6.05 trillion) and a 10.2% rise in foreign currency marketable securities (TZS 8.53 trillion). Meanwhile, equity surged by 15.3%, supported by a 16% rise in reserves (TZS 2.41 trillion). However, advances to the government declined by 17.1%, reflecting tighter monetary policy, while currency in circulation fell by 1.4%, signaling a possible shift towards digital transactions or inflation control measures.

1. Total Assets:

2. Total Liabilities:

3. Equity:

Key Takeaways:

Increase in Assets (+3.18%), driven by growth in foreign marketable securities, loans, and cash reserves.
Increase in Liabilities (+2%), with a rise in bank deposits and foreign currency liabilities.
Growth in Equity (+15.3%), mainly due to an increase in reserves.
⚠️ Decline in Advances to Government (-17.1%), indicating reduced central bank lending to the government.
⚠️ Slight decrease in Currency Circulation (-1.4%), potentially reflecting economic factors like lower cash demand.

Analysis of the Bank of Tanzania's Financial Position (As of 28 February 2025)

The financial statement shows key trends in Tanzania’s monetary system and economic conditions.

1. Financial Stability and Growth

Total Assets Increased (+3.18%)

Increase in Equity (+15.3%)

2. Monetary Policy Implications

⚠️ Decline in Advances to Government (-17.1%)

⚠️ Decrease in Currency Circulation (-1.4%)

Increase in Bank Deposits (+14.8%)

3. External Sector and IMF Involvement

Increase in IMF Quota & Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) (+4.7%)

Increase in Foreign Currency Liabilities (+1.1%)

4. Potential Risks & Considerations

⚠️ Reduction in Government Securities (-1.7%)

⚠️ Deposits from Other Sources Dropped (-4.8%)

Conclusion

✅ The Bank of Tanzania’s financial position is strong, with rising reserves, improved liquidity, and controlled government lending.
⚠️ However, the decline in cash circulation and advances to the government may indicate monetary tightening and a possible slowdown in cash-based economic activities.
💡 Recommendation: Monitor government borrowing and liquidity trends to ensure balanced growth without excessive tightening.

Borrowing Costs Remain High, Savings Offer Mixed Returns

In January 2025, Tanzania's lending interest rates remained high, with the overall lending rate at 15.73%, slightly up from 15.70% in December 2024. Meanwhile, the negotiated lending rate stood at 12.80%, indicating that creditworthy borrowers could secure better terms. On the savings side, the overall deposit rate declined slightly to 8.31%, but negotiated deposit rates increased to 11.80%, encouraging large-scale deposits. The interest rate spread narrowed to 5.63 percentage points from 6.68% in January 2024, suggesting increased competition in the banking sector and potential future adjustments in lending rates.

Lending Interest Rates (January 2025)

Deposit Interest Rates (January 2025)

Interest Rate Spread

These figures indicate that lending rates remained stable with slight upward movement, while deposit rates showed mixed trends, with an increase in negotiated deposit rates. The interest rate spread narrowing suggests banks are slightly reducing the gap between borrowing and lending costs.

The interest rate trends from the Bank of Tanzania with key insights into the current monetary environment and the cost of borrowing and saving in Tanzania

Key Takeaways:

  1. Lending Rates Remain High (15.73%)
    • This suggests that borrowing remains relatively expensive for businesses and individuals.
    • High lending rates could slow down investment and economic expansion if businesses find it costly to access credit.
    • However, the slight increase in the lending rate (from 15.70% to 15.73%) is minimal, meaning borrowing costs have remained stable.
  2. Negotiated Lending Rates Are Lower (12.80%)
    • Businesses and high-value borrowers with good creditworthiness can negotiate better loan terms, meaning not all borrowers face the highest lending rates.
    • This indicates that banks are willing to offer flexible rates to attract quality borrowers.
  3. Deposit Rates Show Mixed Trends
    • Overall deposit rate (8.31%) is slightly lower, meaning banks are not offering much incentive for savings.
    • Negotiated deposit rate (11.80%) is higher, which suggests that large depositors (e.g., institutional investors) can get better returns on deposits.
    • 12-month fixed deposit rate (10.08%) is rising, which encourages long-term savings.
  4. Narrowing Interest Rate Spread (5.63%)
    • The difference between lending and deposit rates is reducing (from 6.68% in January 2024 to 5.63% in January 2025).
    • This suggests banks are offering slightly better rates to depositors while keeping loan rates stable.
    • A smaller spread can indicate increased competition among banks or policy measures to make credit more affordable.

Implications for the Economy

As of October 2024, Tanzania's financial markets have exhibited mixed but resilient performance. The government securities market showed a preference for long-term bonds, while short-term Treasury Bills faced under subscription. Meanwhile, the interbank cash market saw increased turnover, and the foreign exchange market benefited from improved liquidity driven by strong export earnings. Despite some liquidity tightness, particularly due to crop purchase demands, the overall market conditions remain stable, supporting Tanzania’s broader economic growth and monetary policy objectives.

1. Government Securities Market:

Treasury Bills (T-Bills):

Treasury Bonds (T-Bonds):

2. Interbank Cash Market (IBCM):

3. Interbank Foreign Exchange Market (IFEM):

Key Market Characteristics:

  1.  Improved foreign exchange liquidity supported by strong export revenue.
  2.  Slight appreciation of the Shilling, indicating improved market conditions and investor confidence.
  3.  Under Subscription in government securities, particularly in T-Bills, reflecting a shift towards longer-term investments.
  4. Active interbank cash market, showing increased turnover and liquidity activity.
  5. Minimal intervention by the Bank of Tanzania in the IFEM, with their intervention limited to stabilizing volatility.

Tanzania's financial markets as of October 2024 provides insights into the overall health and performance of key market segments, including government securities, interbank cash, and foreign exchange markets.

1. Government Securities Market:

2. Interbank Cash Market (IBCM):

3. Foreign Exchange Market (IFEM):

4. Market Summary:

5. Broader Economic Implications:

In summary, the analysis tells us that Tanzania’s financial markets are currently facing mixed conditions, but overall, they are demonstrating resilience, with strong export performance and improved liquidity conditions. The government’s fiscal and monetary policies appear to be effectively supporting stability and growth

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