For generations, the intoxicating aroma of cloves has been the soul of Zanzibar, its presence laced through the island’s history, economy, and identity.
Once the world’s undisputed clove capital, Zanzibar’s spice fields were symbols of abundance, attracting traders from as far as the Arabian Peninsula, Europe, and Asia.
But time, tides, and trade winds have changed. The global spice market is shifting, and Zanzibar’s once-thriving clove industry now stands at a crossroads, challenged by disease, declining production, and mounting international competition.
Yet amid the uncertainty, a quiet revolution is underway. With bold policy reforms, strategic investment, and a renewed focus on value addition, Zanzibar is seeking to rewrite its spice story, not as a relic of the past, but as a resilient, modern player in a health-conscious, sustainability-driven global market.
Zanzibar’s clove performance
Despite recent efforts to revitalize the sector, Zanzibar’s clove industry continues to face several pressing challenges that threaten its growth and sustainability.
One of the most concerning issues is the sharp decline in production volumes.
Clove output fell from 4,734.1 tonnes in 2022 to just 2,654.7 tonnes in
2023—a staggering 43.9 per cent drop.
The decrease is partly attributed to the aging of clove trees across the islands,
many of which are past their peak productive years and yield significantly
less than before.
Compounding this problem is the emergence of a mysterious disease affecting
clove trees, particularly in the Unguja North region. Over 500,000 trees have been impacted, showing signs of leaf wilting and poor health, which further threatens overall production levels and farmer livelihoods.
In addition, Zanzibar’s clove industry is facing intensified competition in the global market. New, lower-cost suppliers have entered the scene, driving down
prices and making it more difficult for Zanzibar to maintain its export volumes
and earnings. The volatility of world prices only adds to the uncertainty.
Moreover, environmental and social considerations are also becoming
increasingly important in the global spice trade. Consumers are now demanding
products that are not only high-quality but also sustainably sourced and
ethically produced.
Future Outlook and Investment Potential
Zanzibar is actively taking steps to modernize its clove industry through strategic
reforms and long-term planning.
Key among these is the Zanzibar Development Vision 2050 which outlines a bold blueprint for economic transformation, with a strong focus on technological integration, improved packaging, and quality enhancement in traditional sectors like cloves.
Clove Farming and Plantation Expansion
Zanzibar’s fertile soils and favorable climate make it ideal for expanding clove cultivation. With consistent international demand, particularly in the food, pharmaceutical, and fragrance industries, there’s strong potential for scaling up production.
Investors can engage in large-scale clove farming, including land development, the introduction of modern agro-tech, and the application of best farming practices to enhance yield and efficiency.
Processing and Value Addition
Instead of exporting raw cloves, Zanzibar has a golden opportunity to process and add value through products like clove oil, powder, and spice blends.
By setting up clove oil distillation units, packaging facilities, and distribution networks can position investors to serve both local and international markets. With rising interest in wellness, aromatherapy, and natural cosmetics, clove oil is increasingly sought after, especially among eco-conscious consumers.
Research and Development in Clove Products
There is vast potential in exploring new uses for cloves and enhancing farming through it. Innovations such as pest-resistant clove varieties or health-focused clove products can revolutionize the industry.
Collaborations with universities, research centers, or private labs can lead to breakthrough products in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, or eco-agriculture sectors.
Clove-Based Agribusiness Products
Beyond traditional uses, cloves are gaining popularity in health supplements and functional foods. This opens up exciting opportunities for product innovation. Entrepreneurs can develop clove-infused products, from beverages and condiments to skincare and health boosters, catering to the wellness market.
ZSTC’s Road to Clove Sector Reform
Zanzibar State Trading Corporation (ZSTC) has spearheaded critical reforms to modernize the clove sector, enhancing its global competitiveness and farmer welfare.
- Legal Modernization with ZSTC Act No. 11 of 2011
Replacing the outdated 1968 legal framework, the new Act granted ZSTC broader powers, including the authority to establish sales outlets domestically and internationally.
- Clove Development Act No. 2 of 2014
This landmark legislation created the Clove Development Fund to increase production, protect clove trees, and improve farmer services including health support and loans.
- Establishment of Anti-Smuggling Task Force
A specialized task force, composed of government and security officials, was formed to tackle clove smuggling and enforce sector regulations more effectively.
- Farmer-Centered Services through the Ministry of Agriculture
ZSTC distributes clove seedlings and agricultural tools free of charge to farmers each year, promoting crop sustainability and resilience.
- Competitive Pricing Strategy for Farmers
ZSTC offers farmers up to 80% of the international market price—one of the highest payout schemes in the region—ensuring fairer earnings.
- Access to Harvest Support through Soft Loans
To ease harvesting burdens, ZSTC provides interest-free loans to farmers during the peak season, increasing productivity and financial security.
- Infrastructure and Services Upgraded at Buying Points
Enhanced logistics and support at buying centers make it easier for farmers to access markets and services without long-distance travel.
- Zanzibar Cloves Positioned as a Global Premium Brand
With bold branding and marketing efforts, ZSTC is working to establish Zanzibar cloves as a top-tier product in niche international markets.
- Digital Transformation through CAMS (Clove Auction Management System)
The rollout of the CAMS platform aims at widens buyer participation globally and reduces operational bottlenecks—making Zanzibar’s clove market more attractive to international traders.
- Digitized Purchasing Process for Clove Farmers
The new system allows farmers to receive details such as weight, grade, and value of their cloves—accessible via mobile phone. The system enhances oversight, simplifies procedures, and provides accurate, real-time data to support planning and policy development.
- Annual Insurance Coverage for Clove Harvesters
ZSTC provides insurance coverage for clove farmers who may suffer accidents during the harvesting season. This initiative is designed to motivate and encourage farmers to actively participate in harvesting activities, knowing that their wellbeing is protected.
Managing Director
Zanzibar State Trading Corporation
