The Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) engages in commercialization as part of its strategy to enhance the adoption and sustainability of agricultural technologies developed through research. Commercialization ensures that research outputs are not only disseminated but also transformed into marketable products and services that benefit farmers, agribusinesses, and the national economy.

1. Production and Sale of Improved Seeds and Planting Materials

   • TARI produces and commercializes high-quality breeder, foundation, and certified seeds for various crops such as maize, rice, beans, sunflower, sesame, and sorghum.

   • The institute also supplies planting materials for horticultural and perennial crops like coffee, tea, and cassava.

2. Value Addition and Agro-processing Technologies

   • TARI develops and promotes technologies for post-harvest handling, processing, and value addition to reduce losses and increase farmers’ income.

   • These include processing equipment, storage innovations, and packaging techniques.

3. Technology Licensing and Intellectual Property  Management

   • Research products such as new crop varieties, innovations, and technologies are patented and licensed to private companies and entrepreneurs for mass production and marketing.

   • TARI ensures compliance with IP laws and benefits from royalties or licensing fees.

4. Public–Private Partnerships (PPP)

   • TARI collaborates with private sector players to commercialize agricultural technologies through joint ventures, contract production, and distribution agreements.

   • These partnerships help expand market reach and ensure sustainability.

5. Farm Business Development and Enterprise Units (FABU)

   • TARI has established business units within its centers to manage the production and sale of research products and services on a commercial basis.

   • These units handle seed production, consultancy services, and laboratory services.

6. Consultancy and Technical Services

   • TARI offers expert consultancy in crop management, soil testing, pest and disease control, and agribusiness development for both public and private clients.

7. Revenue Generation and Sustainability

   • Income generated from commercialization activities is reinvested to support research, innovation, and institutional development.

   • This reduces dependence on government funding and donor support.

8. Capacity Building in Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship

   • TARI trains farmers and youth on agribusiness skills, technology application, and entrepreneurship to enhance technology uptake and economic impact.

9. Linkages with Markets and Financial Institutions

• TARI facilitates connections between producers, buyers, and financial service providers to strengthen market access and investment in agricultural value chains.