Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) is a public institution responsible for regulating and coordinating shipping agency services in Tanzania. It was established under the Shipping Agencies Act No. 14 of 2017 following the merger of the former Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation and the Surface and Marine Transport Regulatory Authority’s maritime regulatory functions. TASAC operates under the Ministry of Transport and plays a key role in ensuring efficiency, transparency, and compliance within the maritime transport and shipping agency sector.
One of the core mandates of TASAC is the regulation of shipping agencies operating in Tanzania. The corporation is responsible for licensing shipping agents, freight forwarders, and clearing and forwarding companies, ensuring that they meet required professional, legal, and operational standards. Through this regulatory role, TASAC promotes fair competition, professionalism, and accountability in maritime trade and logistics services. It also works to protect the interests of the government, service providers, and users of shipping services.
TASAC is also tasked with coordinating shipping agency services on behalf of the government. This includes representing vessels owned or chartered by the government and providing agency services to foreign government vessels when required. By performing these functions, TASAC supports national interests in maritime trade and ensures that government vessels are handled efficiently and in accordance with international maritime practices.
Another important function of TASAC is monitoring compliance with national laws and international maritime conventions to which Tanzania is a party. The corporation ensures that shipping agents adhere to established regulations, codes of conduct, and service standards. This contributes to improved service delivery, reduced malpractices, and enhanced safety and reliability within the shipping industry. TASAC also resolves disputes between shipping service providers and clients, helping to maintain trust and stability in the sector.
Capacity building and stakeholder engagement are also central to TASAC’s operations. The corporation conducts training programs, workshops, and awareness initiatives aimed at improving skills and knowledge among shipping agents and other maritime stakeholders. It collaborates with port authorities, customs, private sector players, and international organizations to strengthen the maritime transport system and support trade facilitation.
Overall, TASAC plays a significant role in enhancing the efficiency and integrity of Tanzania’s maritime and shipping agency sector. By regulating, coordinating, and supervising shipping agency services, the corporation contributes to smoother port operations, increased trade competitiveness, and the overall growth of the national economy.