The Cotton Industry Act

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CHAPTER 201
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT
[PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION]
Arrangement of Sections
Section Title
part i
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. Short title.
2. Interpretation.
part ii
THE TANZANIA COTTON BOARD
3. Establishment of Cotton Board.
4. Management of Board.
5. Function of Board.
6. Minister may give direction to Board.
part iii
CULTIVATION OF COTTON
7. Cotton to be grown in specified areas.
8. Varieties of cotton to be grown.
9. Restriction on cotton seed importation, breeding and multiplication.
10. Certified seeds to be grown.
11. Reservation of cotton seeds.
12. Power to appoint agro-inputs suppliers.
13. Declaration of quarantine area.
14. Prevention of diseases.
15. Contract farming.
part iv
MARKETING, LICENSING AND WAREHOUSING
16. Grower to grade seed cotton before sale.
17. Board to determine grade of cotton.
18. Mixing different grades of seed cotton prohibited.
19. Restriction on cotton buying.
20. Cotton buying licences.
21. Provisions relating to cotton buying licences.

ent grades of seed cotton prohibited.
19. Restriction on cotton buying.
20. Cotton buying licences.
21. Provisions relating to cotton buying licences.

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
22. Cotton warehousing. 23. Cotton buying posts. 24. Purchase of cotton. 25. Prices to be linked to world market. 26. Conditions to be observed by cotton buyers. 27. Inspection of premises and records. part v
GINNING AND BALING
28. Registration of ginnery. 29. Ginning licences. 30. Conditions as to ginning licence. 31. Movement of cotton. 32. Register of ginneries. 33. Ginning licence not assignable. 34. Duties of holder of ginning licence. 35. Licences. 36. Cancellation or suspension of licences and appeal. part vi
PURCHASE, SALE AND EXPORT OF COTTON LINT AND COTTON SEED
37. Export of cotton lint and cotton seeds. 38. Appointment of cotton inspectors. 39. Restriction on purchase and export of cotton. part vii
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
40. Appointment of Director-General and other staff. 41. Board to grant gratuities, etc., to employees. 42. Seal of Board. 43. Appointment of agents and contractors. 44. Funds and resources of Board. 45. Annual Budget of Board. 46. Liability of members, etc..

eal of Board. 43. Appointment of agents and contractors. 44. Funds and resources of Board. 45. Annual Budget of Board. 46. Liability of members, etc..

47. Stakeholders’ meeting. 48. Powers to make by-laws. 49. Financing of shared functions. 50. Books of accounts and audit. 51. Minister to submit Accounts to National Assembly. 52. Establishment of Cotton Appeals Board.

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
53. Rules and regulations.
54. General penalty.
55. Board to make regulations.
part viii
REPEAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL PROVISIONS
56. Repeal.
57. Savings.
58. Minister may make further consequential provisions.
SCHEDULE

e regulations.
part viii
REPEAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL PROVISIONS
56. Repeal.
57. Savings.
58. Minister may make further consequential provisions.
SCHEDULE

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PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. This Act may be cited as the Cotton Industry Act. 2.–(1) In this Act, unless the context requires otherwise-
“agro-inputs” includes certified seeds, agro-chemicals and
gears necessary for the application of agro-chemicals;
“Board” means the Tanzania Cotton Board established by
section 3(1);
“buying licence” means a buying licence issued under the
provisions of this Act;
“Cotton Appeals Board” means an adjudication machinery
for determination of disputes established by section 52;
“cotton buyer” means a person licensed as a cotton buyer
under the provisions of this Act;
“cotton lint’’ means ginned cotton;
“cotton plant” means the plant gossypiurn species, and
includes any portion of plant;
“cotton seed” means cotton seed produced from seed cotton;
“cotton quarantine area’’ means an area declared as cotton
quarantine area under this Act;
“contract farming” means farming under agreements
between cotton growers, farmers or producers on the one
Short title
Interpretation
Act. No. 20 of 2009 s.

ract farming” means farming under agreements
between cotton growers, farmers or producers on the one
Short title
Interpretation
Act. No. 20 of 2009 s.

43
CHAPTER 201
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT
An Act to enact the Cotton Industry Act, to establish the Tanzania Cotton
Board, to make better provisions for the regulation, improvement and
development of the cotton industry and for related matters. [1st July, 2004]
[GN. No. 180 of 2004]
Acts Nos. 2 of 2001
20 of 2009

ion, improvement and
development of the cotton industry and for related matters. [1st July, 2004]
[GN. No. 180 of 2004]
Acts Nos. 2 of 2001
20 of 2009

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

zania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.111
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

2023]
part and financiers including cotton buyers, ginneries
investors or bankers on the other part;
“Director” means an officer in-charge of the department
responsible for crop development;
“Director-General” means the Chief Executive Officer of the
Board appointed under section 40;
“export” means export outside Tanzania;
“extension officer” means an extension officer appointed in
accordance with the provisions of this Act;
“ginnery’’ means a place in which seed cotton is converted
into cotton lint;
“ginning licence’’ means a ginning licence issued under the
provisions of sections 29;
“Grade A cotton’’ means mature seed cotton which is white
and free from stain, extraneous matter or damage from
any cause;
“Grade B cotton” means any seed cotton of a merchantable
quality inferior to grade A cotton;
“grower’’ means a person who grows cotton plants;
“input” means planting materials, agrochemicals, fertilisers,
farm implements and packaging materials;
“inspector” means an inspector appointed in accordance
with the provisions of section 38;
“licensed ginner’’ means a holder of a valid ginning licence;
“local government authority” means the district authority
and the urban authority established under the Local
Government (District Authorities) Act and the Local
Government (Urban Authorities) Act;
“member’’ in relation to the Board of Directors means
a member of the Board of Directors and includes the
Chairman of the Board;
“Minister’’ means the Minister responsible for agriculture;
“Ministry’’ means the ministry responsible for agriculture;
“regulatory function” includes quality control and licensing;
data collection, analysis and dissemination, market
information, enforcement of law and order, making and
Caps.

ncludes quality control and licensing;
data collection, analysis and dissemination, market
information, enforcement of law and order, making and
Caps.

287
and 288

287
and 288

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
enforcing rules and regulations for proper production,
processing, marketing, importation, exportation and
storage of cotton inputs and products, setting indicative
prices and other functions financed exclusively by the
Government;
“seed cotton’’ means any cotton after picking and before it
has been ginned;
“society’’ means a cooperative society registered under the
Cooperative Societies Act;
“stakeholder” means a dealer in the cotton industry
including the Government, local government authorities,
cooperative societies, the Board and private players such
as producers, producer associations, traders, processors,
marketing agents, exporters, input suppliers, research and
extension institutions, financial institutions and any other
person with vested interest in the cotton industry; and
“stakeholders meeting” means a meeting of cotton
stakeholders referred to under this Act.

ther
person with vested interest in the cotton industry; and
“stakeholders meeting” means a meeting of cotton
stakeholders referred to under this Act.

(2) “Buy’’ and “sell’’ includes an offer to buy or, as the case
may be, an offer to sell and also any transaction whereby the
property in the article in relation to which the expression is
used may pass to the buyer in future. (3) The Director may, subject to the limitations and
restrictions as he may determine, by order published in the
Gazette, delegate any of his functions under this Act to any
public officer or other authority.,
(4) Where any order or direction made or given by the
Director or the Board under any provision of this Act is not
expressly required by that provision to be published in the
Gazette, an order or direction shall be brought to the notice
of persons affected or likely to be affected in a manner as the
Director or, as the case may be, the Board may determine:
Provided that, where any order or direction is published
in the Gazette, the persons shall be deemed to have notice
thereof. (5) The expression “offence against this Act’’ include an
offence under any subsidiary legislation made under this Act. Cap. 211

have notice
thereof. (5) The expression “offence against this Act’’ include an
offence under any subsidiary legislation made under this Act. Cap. 211

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
PART II
THE TANZANIA COTTON BOARD
3.–(1) There is hereby established a Board to be known as the
Tanzania Cotton Board which shall-
(a) have perpetual succession and a common seal;
(b) in its corporate name, be capable of suing and being
sued;
(c) be capable of purchasing or acquiring and managing in
any manner and alienating any movable and immovable
property;
(d) entering into any contract or agreement and doing
other things or acts for the proper performance of its
functions under the provisions of this Act which may
lawfully be done or performed by a body corporate. (2) The provisions of the First Schedule shall have effect as
to, the constitution, tenure of office, proceedings of and other
matters relating to the Board. 4. The power to carry out the operations and management of
the Board shall vest in the Board of Directors. 5.–(1) The Board shall carry out regulatory functions and other
activities necessary, advantageous or proper for the benefit of
the cotton industry.

. 5.–(1) The Board shall carry out regulatory functions and other
activities necessary, advantageous or proper for the benefit of
the cotton industry.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1),
the functions of the Board shall be to-
(a) advise the Government on the policies and strategies
for the development of the cotton industry;
(b) regulate and control the quality of cotton and cotton by
products;
(c) collect, refine, maintain, use or disseminate information
or data relating to the cotton industry and monitor the
production and exportation of cotton;
(d) make regulations for processing, exportation and
storage of cotton and cotton by-products;
Establishment of
Cotton Board
Management of
Board
Function of Board
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 44

exportation and
storage of cotton and cotton by-products;
Establishment of
Cotton Board
Management of
Board
Function of Board
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 44

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(e) promote and protect the interests of farmers against
syndicates of buyers which may be formed through
associations;
(f) monitor consumption of cotton lint in local textile
industries;
(g) promote the development of the cotton industry; and
(h) represent the Government in local and international
fora in matters relating to the cotton industry.

e the development of the cotton industry; and
(h) represent the Government in local and international
fora in matters relating to the cotton industry.

(3) In particular, and without prejudice to the generality
of the provisions of subsection (1) and subject to any special
or general directions of the Minister, the Board shall have
power to-
(a) permit or licence buyers and exporters of seed cotton,
cotton lint, operators or ginneries;
(b) issue export permits for cotton seed, cotton lint and
other cotton by-products;
(c) establish quality standards for cotton seed, seed
cotton and cotton lint and to ensure the compliance of
standards by persons licenced hereunder;
(d) provide for a forum for discussions and negotiations
among various stakeholders in the sector;
(e) determine the manner and quantity of cotton seed
which any ginner or owner of seed cotton shall retain for
the purpose of planting having regard to geographical
location; and
(f) do anything or enter into any transaction which in
the opinion of the Board is calculated to facilitate the
proper and efficient carrying out of its activities and the
proper exercise of its functions under the provisions of
this Act. (4) The Minister may, where he considers it expedient,
direct the Board to perform any commercial function for a
specified period.

isions of
this Act. (4) The Minister may, where he considers it expedient,
direct the Board to perform any commercial function for a
specified period.

(5) The Board shall have power, for the purpose of carrying
out its functions, to do acts and things as appear to be requisite,
advantageous or convenient for or in connection with the

r the purpose of carrying
out its functions, to do acts and things as appear to be requisite,
advantageous or convenient for or in connection with the

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
carrying out of its functions or to be incidental or conducive
to their proper discharge, and may carry on any activity in that
behalf either alone or in association with the Government, a
local authority or any person or body of persons. (6) For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby declared that, the
foregoing provisions with respect to the powers of the Board
relate to its capacity as a body corporate and this subsection
shall not authorise the disregard by the Board of any enactment
or rule of law. 6.–(1) The Minister may give to the Board directions of a
general or specific character as to the carrying out of its
functions and the exercise of its powers in relation to matters
appearing to the Minister to affect the national interest and the
Board shall give effect to the direction.

rcise of its powers in relation to matters
appearing to the Minister to affect the national interest and the
Board shall give effect to the direction.

(2) Where the Board fails to perform any of its functions
without good cause or to give effect to any of the Minister’s
directions, the Minister may exercise disciplinary power as he
may deem fit against the Board of Directors. PART III
CULTIVATION OF COTTON
7.–(1) The Director may, by order published in the Gazette,
subject to the exemptions as he may specify therein, prescribe
areas in Mainland Tanzania where cotton plant may be grown. (2) A person who, in contravention of any order made
under this section, plants cotton on any land to which the
order applies, commits an offence and on conviction, shall be
liable to a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand shillings
or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or to
both. 8.–(1) The Director shall prescribe varieties of cotton to be
grown in different parts of Tanzania. (2) It shall be an offence for a person to grow any cotton
variety which has not been prescribed by the Director. Minister may
give direction to
Board
Cotton to
be grown in
specified areas
Varieties of cotton
to be grown

ch has not been prescribed by the Director. Minister may
give direction to
Board
Cotton to
be grown in
specified areas
Varieties of cotton
to be grown

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
9.–(1) A person shall not import, breed or multiply cotton
seeds or plants for any purpose without the permit issued by
the Director. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of this
section, commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable
to a fine not exceeding three hundred thousand shillings or to
an imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to
both and the seeds or plants shall be destroyed by the Board on
behalf of the Director at the cost of the defendant. (3) The Board on behalf of the Director shall make
arrangements for Multiplication of foundation and certified
cotton seeds for planting. 10. A cotton grower shall not grow cotton seeds which have not
been certified by the director and a person who contravenes
the provision of this section, commits an offence. 11.–(1) The Board shall cause to be reserved a quantity and
quality of cotton seeds as the Director may direct by notice in
writing and hold cotton seeds to the order of the Director.

be reserved a quantity and
quality of cotton seeds as the Director may direct by notice in
writing and hold cotton seeds to the order of the Director.

(2) A cotton seeds reserved pursuant to the provisions of
subsection (1) shall become the property of the Director from
the date of the notice reserving the seeds. (3) The cotton seeds reserved pursuant to the provisions of
subsection (2) shall be dusted, bagged transported, delivered,
stored and sold to the public in the prescribed manner. (4) A package of cotton seed offered for sale shall be labeled
in accordance with specifications set out under the provisions
of the Seeds Act. 12. The Board shall have power to appoint fit and proper
persons for the supply and distribution of agro-inputs and
their applicators. 13.–(1) The Director where he considers necessary for the
purpose of preventing the outbreak, or spread of any cotton
Restriction on
cotton seed
importation,
breeding and
multiplication
Certified seeds to
be grown
Reservation of
cotton seeds
Cap. 308
Power to appoint
agro-inputs
suppliers
Declaration of
quarantine area

multiplication
Certified seeds to
be grown
Reservation of
cotton seeds
Cap. 308
Power to appoint
agro-inputs
suppliers
Declaration of
quarantine area

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

zania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.117
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

2023]
insect, pest or disease, by order under his hand, may declare an
area to be a cotton quarantine area and in the order-
(a) prohibit or regulate in the area the sowing of cotton
seed or any other crop specified in the order known to
harbour insect pest or diseases of cotton; and
(b) prohibit the removal from the area without a permit
in writing issued by the Director of any seed cotton
or cotton seed or any plant or any article which has
contained any seed cotton or cotton seed or any article
which in his opinion is likely to harbour insect, pests or
diseases of cotton;
(2) The Director may by written notice require any person
within the time specified in the notice to remove to any place
or to destroy any seed cotton, cotton seed or cotton refuse in
his possession or control in cotton quarantine area, and where
person fails to comply with any notice, the Director may, on
giving not less than seven days notice in writing of his intention
so to do, cause the removal or destruction to be effected and
thereupon, the person shall, without prejudice to any penalty
which he may have incurred by reason of the failure, be liable
to pay costs of undertaking which shall be recoverable as a
debt due to the Government.

which he may have incurred by reason of the failure, be liable
to pay costs of undertaking which shall be recoverable as a
debt due to the Government.

(3) A person who contravenes or fails to comply with the
provisions of any order or notice made or issued under this
section, commits an offence. 14.–(1) The Director may, by order under his hand, for the
purpose of preventing or controlling the occurrence or spread
of any insect, pests or diseases of cotton within any area
specified in the order-
(a) require that within the area-
(i) all or any cotton plants, cotton residues or any plant
specified in the order, be uprooted and burned by
any person possessing or having control over the
same; or
(ii) all or any seed cotton, cotton seed or cotton refuse
be burned;
Prevention of
diseases

any person possessing or having control over the
same; or
(ii) all or any seed cotton, cotton seed or cotton refuse
be burned;
Prevention of
diseases

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(b) require any grower within the area forthwith to harvest
his seed cotton as, in the opinion of the Director, is
ready for harvesting; or
(c) prohibit a person within the area from planting any
cotton seed or cotton plant before a date specified in
the order. (2) A person who contravenes or fails to comply with any of
the provisions of any order made under this section, commits
an offence. (3) Where a person fails to carry out the provision of an
order made under subsection (1), the Director may, after giving
not less than seven days’ notice in writing of his intention to
do so, cause the measures to be taken as maybe necessary
to carry out the provisions of the order and thereupon, the
person shall, without prejudice to any penalty which he may
have incurred by reason of a failure, be liable to pay the costs
of the undertaking which shall be recoverable as a debt due to
the Government.

he may
have incurred by reason of a failure, be liable to pay the costs
of the undertaking which shall be recoverable as a debt due to
the Government.

15.–(1) A registered farmer may, for the purposes of facilitating
farming activities, enter into the contract of farming with
financier, cotton buyer, cotton processor, investor or banker. (2) The contract of farming entered into under subsection
(1) shall be in the prescribed standard form and contain-
(a) name, address and status of the registered farmer;
(b) name, address and status of the financier;
(c) obligations of the parties;
(d) type or kind of facilitation to be granted to the farmer;
(e) terms and conditions imposed on the farmer; and
(f) other information as may be necessary for the purpose
of the contract farming. (3) A contract of farming entered into under this section
shall be submitted to the Board for perusal and registration. (4) The Board shall have the mandate to monitor the
implementation of the contract of farming in order to protect
rights of both parties. Contract farming
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 48

mandate to monitor the
implementation of the contract of farming in order to protect
rights of both parties. Contract farming
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 48

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(5) A person being a financier, cotton buyer, cotton processor,
investor or banker shall not facilitate a registered farmer in any
manner without a contract of farming as required under this
section. (6) A person who contravenes this section, commits an
offence and on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less
than five million shillings or to imprisonment for a term of not
less than six months but not more than two years or to both. [s. 14A]
PART IV
MARKETING, LICENSING AND WAREHOUSING
16. A grower shall grade a seed cotton intended for sale into
Grade A or Grade B cotton before any cotton is sold by him. [s. 15]
17. The Board may, by order, determine grades of seed cotton
for sale at specified areas and for a specified period. [s. 16]
18.–(1) A person shall not mix any other seed cotton with
Grade A seed cotton. (2) A person shall not mix any other seed cotton with Grade
B seed cotton or any unmerchantable cotton with graded cotton.

n with
Grade A seed cotton. (2) A person shall not mix any other seed cotton with Grade
B seed cotton or any unmerchantable cotton with graded cotton.

(3) A person who sells seed cotton without first grading
the same or mixes unmerchantable cotton with graded cotton,
commits an offence and on conviction shall be liable to a fine
of not less than fifty thousand shillings or imprisonment for a
minimum term of three months or to both. (4) A person who buys improperly graded seed cotton or
graded cotton mixed with unmerchantable cotton, commits an
offence. [s. 17]
19.–(1) A person other than a holder of a valid seed cotton
buying licence shall not buy seed cotton. Grower to grade
seed cotton
before sale
Board to
determine grade
of cotton
Mixing different
grades of seed
cotton prohibited
Restriction on
cotton buying

wer to grade
seed cotton
before sale
Board to
determine grade
of cotton
Mixing different
grades of seed
cotton prohibited
Restriction on
cotton buying

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (1), where
an association or cooperative society licensed as a cotton buyer,
buys seed cotton through its members, the members shall not
be required to be licenced as cotton buyers. (3) A cotton buyer shall not buy seed cotton at any place
other than at a cotton buying post specified in his cotton
buying licence. (4) A person who contravenes any of the provisions of this
section, commits an offence. [s. 18]
20.–(1) The Board shall, on application made, issue to the
applicant a cotton buying licence in the prescribed form which
entitle the applicant to buy seed cotton and a cotton buying
licence shall specify the cotton buying post or posts at which
the holder shall conduct the buying operations.

to buy seed cotton and a cotton buying
licence shall specify the cotton buying post or posts at which
the holder shall conduct the buying operations.

(2) A cotton buying licence shall, unless previously revoked
or surrendered, remain in force until the fifteenth day of
November for Westem Cotton Growing Area and the fifteenth
day of January for Eastern Cotton Growing Area following the
date of issue of a licence and the Board shall have power to
extend the validity of the licence on sufficient grounds. [s. 19]
21.–(1) A cotton buyer shall produce his cotton buying licence
at reasonable times upon request of the inspector, and a buyer
who fails without reasonable cause to produce his licence when
requested, commits an offence and on conviction shall be liable
to pay a fine of not less than two hundred thousand shillings or to
an imprisonment for a term of not less than three years or to both. (2) A cotton buying licence shall not be assignable or
transferable. [s. 20]
22.–(1) A person shall not erect or operate a cotton store for
the purpose of storing seed cotton without the permission in
writing of the Board. Cotton buying
licences
Provisions
relating to cotton
buying licences
Cotton ware-
housing

seed cotton without the permission in
writing of the Board. Cotton buying
licences
Provisions
relating to cotton
buying licences
Cotton ware-
housing

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(2) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section,
commits an offence. [s. 21]
23.–(1) The Board may, by notice, order any premises or place
to be a cotton buying post either temporarily or on permanent
basis and a person shall not sell any seed cotton except at a
cotton buying post. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section
commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable to a
fine of not less than two hundred thousand shillings or to
imprisonment for a term of not less than three years or to both. [s. 22]
24.–(1) The Board may, by order-
(a) fix a date in each year prior to which a seed cotton shall
not be bought in any specified area;
(b) declare the unit of weight to be used for the purpose of
weighing seed cotton in any specified area;
(c) fix a date in each year after which a seed cotton shall
not be bought in any specified area; and
(d) fix hours and days on which the premises of cotton
buyers shall be kept open for the purpose of conducting
business.

ht in any specified area; and
(d) fix hours and days on which the premises of cotton
buyers shall be kept open for the purpose of conducting
business.

(2) A cotton buyer who contravenes or fails to comply with
the provisions of any order made under this section, commits
an offence. [s. 23]
25. The traders in the cotton industry shall be guided in
their dealings in respect of prices and quality by prevailing
international marketing information. [s. 24]
26.–(1) A cotton buyer shall-
(a) when his premises are open for business, display in
Kiswahili and English version in conspicuous letters,
Cotton buying
posts
Purchase of
cotton
Prices to be
linked to world
market
Conditions to
be observed by
cotton buyers

version in conspicuous letters,
Cotton buying
posts
Purchase of
cotton
Prices to be
linked to world
market
Conditions to
be observed by
cotton buyers

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THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
the prices offered by him per unit weight of each grade
of seed cotton;
(b) display standard grade sample box approved by the
Board;
(c) keep and render accounts of his dealings in seed cotton
as may be prescribed;
(d) display a weighing scale properly serviced, inspected
and approved by the Weights and Measurements
Department of the Ministry of Trade and Industries;
(e) store seed cotton in his possession in a cotton store at
one or any of the cotton buying posts at which he is
licensed to buy or in storage facility as the Board may
require;
(f) buy seed cotton offered to him at the prices exhibited;
(g) keep Grade A cotton separate from Grade B cotton;
and
(h) ensure that, cotton purchased by him is correctly
graded. (2) A cotton buyer shall not buy-
(a) seed cotton at a price less than the price exhibited;
(b) seed cotton without issuing produce receipts to the
farmers in respect of a seed cotton purchased; and
(c) seed cotton otherwise other than by cash payment at
the time and place of delivery.

ipts to the
farmers in respect of a seed cotton purchased; and
(c) seed cotton otherwise other than by cash payment at
the time and place of delivery.

(3) A cotton buyer who contravenes or fails to comply with
any of the provisions of this section, commits an offence. [s. 25]
27.–(1) A cotton inspector may-
(a) enter upon any premises used by cotton buyers for the
purposes of inspecting the same, any seed cotton and
scales thereon;
(b) inspect and make copies of entries in any books of
account or other documents required to be kept under
the provisions of this Act; and
(c) suspend the seed cotton buying operation by seizing
the weighing scale and revoking the buying licence. Inspection of
premises and
records

ct; and
(c) suspend the seed cotton buying operation by seizing
the weighing scale and revoking the buying licence. Inspection of
premises and
records

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.123
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(2) A person who obstructs an officer lawfully exercising
his powers under this section or refuses an officer permission
to exercise the power or fails to cooperate with the officer in
the exercise by officer of any power, commits an offence and on
conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not less than two hundred
thousand shillings or to an imprisonment for a term of not less
than three years or to both. [s.

hall be liable to a fine of not less than two hundred
thousand shillings or to an imprisonment for a term of not less
than three years or to both. [s.

26]
PART V
GINNING AND BALING
28.–(1) A person shall not erect and register or cause to be
erected or registered a new cotton ginnery unless the following
particulars have been submitted to and approved by the Board-
(a) the name and address of the proposed ginnery;
(b) the name and address of each director or partner and
the shareholding of each shareholder;
(c) processing capacity of the ginnery;
(d) planned production of the ginnery;
(e) capacity number and area of warehouses;
(f) existing transport facilities;
(g) number and quality of skilled, semi-skilled and non-
skilled personnel employed or to be employed; and
(h) financial credit worthiness from a reputed bank. (2) A person granted with a registration certificate shall
complete construction of the ginnery within two years from
the date of the issuance of the certificate. (3) The certificate of registration is not transferable. (4) A person shall not operate a ginnery unless it has been
duly inspected and certified by the Board. (5) The Board may, in its discretion, limit the number of
ginneries which may be constructed or operated in an area.

ected and certified by the Board. (5) The Board may, in its discretion, limit the number of
ginneries which may be constructed or operated in an area.

(6) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section
or any orders made under this section, commits an offence. [s. 27]
Registration of
ginnery

(6) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section
or any orders made under this section, commits an offence. [s. 27]
Registration of
ginnery

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.124
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
29.–(1) A person shall not gin seed cotton or bale cotton lint
unless he is a holder of a valid ginning licence issued by the
Board and a ginning licence shall, unless revoked or suspended,
remain in force until the thirty first day of March following the
date of issue of the licence. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of subsection
(1), commits an offence. [s. 28]
30.–(1) A ginning licence shall entitle the holder to gin seed
cotton and bale cotton lint upon the premises specified therein
and in accordance with conditions as to machinery, plant,
storage accommodation and output. (2) A holder of a ginning licence who fails to comply with
any order or condition lawfully made or imposed by the Board,
commits an offence. (3) The Board may, for good and sufficient reason, refuse to
issue a ginner’s licence, and in that event shall communicate to
the applicant the grounds for the refusal within fourteen days. [s.

reason, refuse to
issue a ginner’s licence, and in that event shall communicate to
the applicant the grounds for the refusal within fourteen days. [s.

29]
31.–(1) A person shall not move or cause to be moved any seed
cotton from one region to another save in accordance with a
permit in writing issued by the Board. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section,
commits an offence. [s. 30]
32. The Board shall keep and maintain a register of ginneries
in respect of which licences have been issued. [s. 31]
33. A ginning licence shall not be assignable or transferable. [s. 32]
Ginning licences
Conditions as to
ginning licence
Movement of
cotton
Register of
ginneries
Ginning licence
not assignable

ble or transferable. [s. 32]
Ginning licences
Conditions as to
ginning licence
Movement of
cotton
Register of
ginneries
Ginning licence
not assignable

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.125
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

zania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.125
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

2023]
34.–(1) It shall be a condition of a ginning licence that, the
holder shall-
(a) maintain and work the ginnery in a proper and
workmanship manner and in a way as not to cause
deterioration or damage to the seed cotton, cotton lint,
or cotton seed handled therein;
(b) ensure that, the seed cotton delivered to the ginnery is
correctly graded and keep Grade A cotton and the lint
therefrom and Grade B cotton and the lint therefrom
separate from one another and from any other seed cotton;
(c) keep seed cotton, cotton seed and cotton lint which has
been salvaged from damage by fire or water, separate
from other seed cotton, cotton seed and cotton lint
and gin the seed cotton and bale the cotton lint in
accordance with instructions from the Board;
(d) keep correct records of seed cotton deliveries, lint and
seed production and make correct returns to the Board
as may be prescribed;
(e) keep seed cotton, cotton seed and cotton lint in his
possession or control, properly stored in the ginnery
buildings or stores;
(f) keep the ginnery and its precincts in a clean and
sanitary condition;
(g) take reasonable precautions for the prevention of fire as
may be prescribed;
(h) where required by the Board, gin before any other seed
cotton of seed of which the Board has given notice of
its intention to exercise its powers under the provisions
of section 11;
(i) produce cotton lint free from seeds or parts of seeds
or other substances whatsoever which ought to have
been removed therefrom by the processes of ginning
where the same had been carried out in a proper and
workmanship manner; and
(j) gin seed cotton which may be delivered to him for
ginning up to the capacity of the ginnery.

n carried out in a proper and
workmanship manner; and
(j) gin seed cotton which may be delivered to him for
ginning up to the capacity of the ginnery.

Duties of holder
of ginning licence
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 45

Duties of holder
of ginning licence
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 45

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.126
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(2) A holder of a ginning licence who contravenes any of
the provisions of this section, commits an offence. (3) Where a ginnery or any machinery in any ginnery is
being maintained or used in a manner as to cause deterioration
or damage to any cotton handled in a ginnery, the Board may
suspend the ginning licence relating to the ginnery until the
time as it is satisfied that, the cause of the deterioration or
damage has been removed. [s. 33]
35. Licences granted under this Act by the Board, shall be-
(a) in the prescribed manner;
(b) valid for a specified period; and
(c) subject to terms and conditions as may be prescribed
or endorsed therein. [s. 34]
36.–(l) The Board may cancel or suspend a licence where the
licensee fails to comply with terms and conditions of his licence
or for sufficient good cause, the cancellation or suspension
as the case may be is in addition to any penalty to which the
licensee may be liable under this Act.

icient good cause, the cancellation or suspension
as the case may be is in addition to any penalty to which the
licensee may be liable under this Act.

(2) A person aggrieved by the decision of the Board may,
within sixty days from the date of the decision, appeal in
writing to the Minister. [s. 35]
PART VI
PURCHASE, SALE AND EXPORT OF COTTON
LINT AND COTTON SEED
37. Subject to the provisions of this Act, a person may purchase-
(a) cotton lint and cotton seeds for export, or resale within
the United Republic; or
(b) seed cotton for resale within the United Republic. [s. 36]
Licences
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 46
Cancellation
or suspension
of licences and
appeal
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 47
Export of cotton
lint and cotton
seeds

6]
Licences
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 46
Cancellation
or suspension
of licences and
appeal
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 47
Export of cotton
lint and cotton
seeds

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.127
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
38.–(1) There shall be established an office of cotton inspectors
which shall be under the Board. (2) The Board shall appoint fit and qualified persons to be
cotton inspectors. (3) The functions of cotton inspectors shall include to
supervise the purchase, ginning and export of seed cotton,
cotton lint and cotton seed. (4) In discharging the functions conferred to the cotton
inspectors under subsection (3), the cotton inspectors shall
have the power of -
(a) inspecting cotton seed, cotton ginneries and cotton
stores; and
(b) taking of samples and verifying weights and quality of
seed cotton, cotton seed and cotton lint as provided for
in this Act or as may be prescribed. [s.

king of samples and verifying weights and quality of
seed cotton, cotton seed and cotton lint as provided for
in this Act or as may be prescribed. [s.

37]
39.–(1) A person shall not in any manner whatsoever-
(a) export any cotton lint or cotton seed, other than a
holder of a valid export permit issued by the Board
under the provisions of this Act;
(b) exchange, barter or enter into any agreement for
exchange or barter of seed cotton or cotton lint;
(c) purchase, sell, export or dispose of any seed cotton,
cotton lint or cotton seed, unless he applies and obtains
a licence from the Board in accordance with the
provisions of this Act;
(d) engage in sales contract involving cotton lint or cotton
seeds without filing the particulars of sale contract
with the Board within seven days after the date of the
conclusion of the contract;
(e) engage in sales for local consumption and export unless
he is able to make returns, in a prescribed manner,
of sales made for local consumption and export on a
weekly basis; and
Appointment of
cotton inspectors
Restriction on
purchase and
export of cotton
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 49

l consumption and export on a
weekly basis; and
Appointment of
cotton inspectors
Restriction on
purchase and
export of cotton
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 49

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.128
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(f) deal with textile mills unless he is able to make returns
to the Board of the cotton lint purchased from the
ginners in a prescribed form. (2) Any person who contravenes any of the provisions of
this section or contravenes any of the terms and conditions of
a licence granted under this Act, commits an offence and on
conviction, shall be liable to a fine of ten million shillings or to
an imprisonment for a term of five years. [s. 38]
PART VII
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCIAL PROVISIONS
40.–(1) The Board shall, upon approval of the Minister, appoint
a Director-General, who shall be the Chief Executive of the
Board and the Secretary to the Board of Directors. (2) The Board may appoint at salaries and upon terms and
conditions, as it may think fit, officers and employees as it may
deem necessary for the proper and efficient conduct of the
business and activities of the Board.

as it may think fit, officers and employees as it may
deem necessary for the proper and efficient conduct of the
business and activities of the Board.

(3) Subject to subsection (2), the provisions of the services
of officers or employees of the Cotton Lint and Seed Board
immediately proceeding the effective date shall be terminated
and officers or employees shall be entitled to terminal benefits
in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract of
employment with the former Board. (4) The Board may re-employ some officers or employees
of the Cotton Lint and Seed Board whose services are required
by the Board upon terms and conditions as the Board may
determine. [s. 39]
41. The Board may grant gratuities and other retirement
benefit and allowances to officers and employees of the Board
as the Board may determine. [s. 40]
Appointment of
Director-General
and other staff
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 50
Board to grant
gratuities, etc., to
employees

he Board may determine. [s. 40]
Appointment of
Director-General
and other staff
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 50
Board to grant
gratuities, etc., to
employees

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.129
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
42-(1) There shall be a common seal of the Board which shall
be of a shape, size and form as the Board may determine. (2) The deeds, contracts or agreements, to which the seal is
affixed shall be authenticated either by the Chief Executive or
his representative and one Board member or by any two Board
members. [s. 41]
43.–(1) The Board may, on terms and conditions, appoint and
employ agents and contractors as it may deem necessary for
the better carrying out the functions of this Act. (2) The Board shall not delegate the power to delegate or to
approve the annual budget of the Board. [s. 42]
44.

rrying out the functions of this Act. (2) The Board shall not delegate the power to delegate or to
approve the annual budget of the Board. [s. 42]
44.

The funds and resources of the Board shall consist of-
(a) sums of money as may be provided by the Parliament;
(b) any monies raised by way of loans, donations or grants
made within and outside the United Republic;
(c) any loan or subsidy granted to the Board by the
Government or any other person; and
(d) sums of money or property which may become payable
to or vested in the Board under this Act or any other
written law or in respect of any matter incidental to the
carrying out of its functions. [s. 43]
45. Before the commencement of a financial year, the Board
of Directors shall consider and endorse a detailed budget of
moneys expected to be received and disbursed by the Board
during the coming financial year. [s. 44]
46. A matter or thing done or omitted to be done by any
member, officer, servant or agent of the Board shall not render
any person as aforesaid to any action, liability, claim or demand
whatsoever, if the matter or thing is done or omitted to be done
Seal of Board
Appointment
of agents and
contractors
Funds and
resources of
Board
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 51
Annual Budget of
Board
Liability of
members, etc.

of Board
Appointment
of agents and
contractors
Funds and
resources of
Board
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 51
Annual Budget of
Board
Liability of
members, etc.

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.130
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
in good faith for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of
this Act or any order or regulations made thereunder. [s. 45]
47.–(1) For the purposes of promoting the development of
the cotton industry, there shall be a stakeholder’s forum which
shall be responsible for-
(a) putting in place mechanisms for the management and
funding of the shared functions;
(b) making procedures for conducting the annual general
meetings;
(c) determining modalities for financing its activities and
meetings; and
(d) establishing stakeholders’ secretariat and other organs
for better carrying out the shared functions. (2) The stakeholders shall hold the meeting once in a year to
agree on the funding, implementation of the shared functions
and other matters of common interest. [s. 46]
48. The local government authority may, in consultation with
the Minister, make by-laws for better carrying out of the shared
functions as agreed upon by the cotton stakeholders. [s. 47]
49.

in consultation with
the Minister, make by-laws for better carrying out of the shared
functions as agreed upon by the cotton stakeholders. [s. 47]
49.

For the purpose of financing shared functions, stakeholders
may put in place a mechanism for the management and mode
of contribution. [s. 48]
50.–(1) The Board shall cause to be kept and maintained
proper books of accounts in respect to:
(a) the income and expenditure statement of the Board;
and
(b) assets and liabilities of the Board. Stakeholders’
meeting
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 52
Powers to make
by-laws
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 53
Financing of
shared functions
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 53
Books of accounts
and audit
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 54

s to make
by-laws
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 53
Financing of
shared functions
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 53
Books of accounts
and audit
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 54

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.131
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(2) The books of accounts of the Board shall be audited at
the end of each financial year by the Controller and Auditor-
General. (3) The report of the Controller and Auditor-General under
the provisions of subsection (2) shall state whether-
(a) he has obtained the information and explanations
which to the best of his knowledge and belief were
necessary for the purpose of his audit;
(b) in his opinion, proper books of accounts have been
kept by the Board as it appears from his examination of
those books; and
(c) in his opinion and to the best of his information and
according to the explanations given to him, the income
and expenditure account gives a true and fair view of
the income and a state of affairs of the Board and Fund
at the end of the financial year. (4) The Board shall not later than six months after the end
of financial year, submit to the Minister a copy of the audited
statement of accounts and annual report on the activities of the
Board in respect of that year. [s. 49]
51.

bmit to the Minister a copy of the audited
statement of accounts and annual report on the activities of the
Board in respect of that year. [s. 49]
51.

The Minister shall, within six months or longer period as
the National Assembly may by resolution appoint after the
accounts have been audited, lay the copy of audited accounts
and audit report before the National Assembly. [s. 50]
52.–(1) There is hereby established a Cotton Appeals Board
which shall be responsible for determination of disputes arising
in the cotton sector as a result of the decisions of the Board. (2) The Cotton Appeals Board shall consist of-
(a) a Chairman to be appointed by the Minister from
three names proposed by the Tanzania Chamber of
Commerce, Industries and Agriculture;
Minister to
submit accounts
to National
Assembly
Establishment of
Cotton Appeals
Board

y the Tanzania Chamber of
Commerce, Industries and Agriculture;
Minister to
submit accounts
to National
Assembly
Establishment of
Cotton Appeals
Board

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.132
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(b) a member nominated by the Tanzania Cotton
Association; and
(c) a member from the Ministry responsible for legal
affairs;
(3) Members of the Cotton Appeals Board referred to in
subsection (2), shall be appointed by the Minister, and hold
office for a period not exceeding three years and be eligible for
re-appointment for another term of three years. (4) The Minister shall, by notice in the Gazette, make
regulations setting out powers and procedure for the
institution, hearing and determination of appeals before the
Cotton Appeals Board. (5) A person aggrieved by the decision of the Board made
pursuant to the provisions of this Act, may appeal to the Cotton
Appeals Board within thirty days from the date of the decision. (6) A person aggrieved by the decision of the Cotton
Appeals Board may refer his grievances to the Minister. [s.

y days from the date of the decision. (6) A person aggrieved by the decision of the Cotton
Appeals Board may refer his grievances to the Minister. [s.

51]
53.–(1) The Minister may make rules and regulations-
(a) governing the cultivation, baling, marketing,
transportation, warehousing, ginning, importation and
exportation of cotton;
(b) prescribing the forms and particulars to be included in
any return, information or statistics to be submitted by
cotton growers, buyers, ginnery operators, exporters
and importers under the provisions of this Act. (c) providing for the grading or classification and
definitions of grades, fixed in respect of cotton whether
locally manufactured or imported;
(d) providing for the inspection of cotton, whether locally
grown, or ginned or imported and for the appointment
of inspectors and prescribing their duties;
(e) providing for the procedures for grading, sampling,
inspection; weighing and determination of quality of
cotton;
Rules and
regulations

eir duties;
(e) providing for the procedures for grading, sampling,
inspection; weighing and determination of quality of
cotton;
Rules and
regulations

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.133
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

zania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.133
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E.

2023]
(f) providing for records or information to be kept and
returns to be made by the cotton growers, buyers,
ginnery operators, exporters and importers of cotton;
(g) prohibiting or control of the import or export of cotton
seed;
(h) prescribing the variety and quality of cotton seed to be
used for sowing in any specified area or region;
(i) prescribing the method of bagging, transporting,
delivering, storing and supplying to growers of cotton
seed which has been reserved under the provisions of
section 11;
(j) to regulate and control of the layout, erection and
use of cotton buying posts and their inspection and
management;
(k) providing for the control of the erection of ginneries
and the conditions upon which they may be erected,
maintained and operated;
(l) prescribing the conditions upon which ginning licences
may be issued;
(m) to regulate the purchase and sale of seed cotton;
(n) prescribing the prevention of the outbreak of fire at
cotton buying posts or other premises used for cotton
buying;
(o) describing the procedure on appeals of aggrieved
parties;
(p) the determining of the rate of levy to be imposed on
cotton; and
(q) prescribing anything which is to be or may be prescribed
and generally for better carrying out of the provisions
or purpose of this Act;
(2) Regulations made under this section may be applicable
to the whole of Mainland Tanzania or to any specified part
thereof.

or purpose of this Act;
(2) Regulations made under this section may be applicable
to the whole of Mainland Tanzania or to any specified part
thereof.

(3) Regulations made or purported to have been made
under this section shall not be invalid or unenforceable by
reason only of the fact that, the matter provided for or intended

ported to have been made
under this section shall not be invalid or unenforceable by
reason only of the fact that, the matter provided for or intended

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.134
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
to be provided for by the regulations can only be provided for,
by regulations made under the provisions of this Act, and the
regulations shall be deemed to have been lawfully made under
this section and shall take effect, accordingly. (4) Where the matter prescribed or provided for by any
previous regulation has already been prescribed or provided
for by regulations made under the provisions of this Act,
then, to the extent of any inconsistency between the previous
regulations and the current regulations, the provisions of the
current regulations shall prevail. [s. 52]
54. A person who commits any offence against the provisions
of this Act where a penalty is not specifically provided, on
conviction shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding three years or to a fine not exceeding two million
shillings or to both. [s. 53]
55.

nviction shall be liable to imprisonment for a term not
exceeding three years or to a fine not exceeding two million
shillings or to both. [s. 53]
55.

The Board may, with the approval of the Minister make
regulations for the better carrying out of the functions and
powers under this Act, and without prejudice to the generality
of the foregoing, may make regulations-
(a) prescribing the fees to be paid for anything to be done
under this Act;
(b) regulating the applications for, and the issue of any
licence or permit authorised to be issued under this
Act;
(c) prescribing the manner in which seed cotton, cotton
seed and cotton lint shall be stored, providing for the
storage of different types of seed cotton and cotton
seed separately and prescribing the specification in
conformity with which cotton stores shall be built and
maintained;
(d) prescribing or prohibiting methods of packing seed
cotton and prescribing the maximum weight which
may be packed in any one bag;
General penalty
Board to make
regulations

biting methods of packing seed
cotton and prescribing the maximum weight which
may be packed in any one bag;
General penalty
Board to make
regulations

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.135
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(e) prescribing or prohibiting the types of containers used
in transporting seed cotton;
(f) regulating the weighing of seed cotton;
(g) regulating the ginning of seed cotton;
(h) regulating the purchase, receipt, storage, sale, disposal
and export of cotton lint and cotton seed;
(i) regulating and prescribing powers, duties, functions,
responsibilities and remuneration of officers, employees
and agents of the Board and of inspectors;
(j) prescribing the fee for any service to be rendered by the
Board to ginners, growers and other persons; and
(k) regulating the submission of returns by ginners,
growers, agents and other persons engaged in the
cotton industry. [s. 54]
PART VIII
REPEAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL PROVISIONS
56. [Repeals the Tanzania Cotton Lint and Seed Board Act]. [s. 55]
57.

d in the
cotton industry. [s. 54]
PART VIII
REPEAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL PROVISIONS
56. [Repeals the Tanzania Cotton Lint and Seed Board Act]. [s. 55]
57.

Notwithstanding the repeal of the Tanzania Cotton Lint
and Seed Board Act-
(a) rules, directions and orders issued, made or given
under the repealed enactment shall be deemed to be
regulations, by-laws, directions and orders issued,
given or made under this Act, and shall, subject to
the provisions of this Act relating to penalty for any
contravention, remain in force and apply, mutatis
mutandis, until revoked by regulations, by-laws, orders
or directions issued, given or made under this Act
provided that this paragraph shall not apply to any
rule, direction or order which is inconsistent with any
provision of this Act;
Repeal
Act No. 19 of 1984
Savings
Act No. 19 of 1984

l not apply to any
rule, direction or order which is inconsistent with any
provision of this Act;
Repeal
Act No. 19 of 1984
Savings
Act No. 19 of 1984

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.136
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
(b) permits, licences, certificates, authorities and
appointments issued, granted or made under any
provision of any of the repealed enactment shall
remain valid and continue in effect as a permit, licence,
certificate, authority or appointment issued, granted or
made under the corresponding provision of this Act,
provided that, a Permit, licence, certificate, authority or
appointment may at any time be revoked by the Board
having power under this Act, to issue, grant or make
the same. [s. 56]
58. The Minister may, by order published in the Gazette, at any
time before the expiry of twelve months from the effective date,
make further consequential, transitional and supplementary
provisions as he may consider necessary consequent upon the
repeal of the repealed enactment. [s.

urther consequential, transitional and supplementary
provisions as he may consider necessary consequent upon the
repeal of the repealed enactment. [s.

57]
SCHEDULE
(Made under section 3 (2))
CONSTITUTION, FUNCTIONS AND PROCEEDINGS
OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
1.–(1) The Board of Directors shall consist of the Chairman who shall
be appointed by the President and six other members to be appointed
by the Minister as follows:
(a) one member representing the local government authorities;
(b) one member representing the Tanzania Cotton Association;
(c) one member representing the Cotton Growers Association;
(d) one member representing the textiles industry;
(e) two members who have knowledge and experience in the
matter relating to cotton industry; and
(f) two members representing cotton grower’s co-operative
societies. (2) The Minister shall, in appointing members under subparagraph
(1), ensure that, the appointment is made from three names of
candidates recommended by the relevant association or sector. Minister may
make further
consequential
provisions
Constitution of
board of directors
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 55

by the relevant association or sector. Minister may
make further
consequential
provisions
Constitution of
board of directors
Act No. 20 of 2009 s. 55

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.137
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
2. The members of the Board of directors shall, from among their
number, elect a Vice-Chairman and any member elected a Vice-
Chairman shall, subject to his continuing to be a member, hold office
for a term of one year from the date of his election and be eligible for
re-election. 3.–(1) A member of the Board of Directors shall hold office for a period
of three years from the date of appointment and be eligible for re-
appointment. (2) In the case of a Board member, who is a member by virtue of his
holding some office, he shall cease to be a member upon his ceasing to
hold that office. (3) A member of the Board may, resign from the Board by giving
notice in writing to the Minister and from the date specified in the
notice or, where a date is not specified, from the date of receipt of the
notice by the Minister, he shall cease to be a member.

date specified in the
notice or, where a date is not specified, from the date of receipt of the
notice by the Minister, he shall cease to be a member.

(4) Where a person ceases to be a Board member for any reason
before the expiration of his term of office, the Minister shall appoint
another person in his place and the person appointed shall hold office
for the remainder of the term of office of his predecessor. 4. A person who has been adjudged or otherwise declared insolvent
or bankrupt and has not been discharged or within the period of five
years proceeding his appointment, has been sentenced to a term of
imprisonment exceeding six months without the option of a fine and
has not received a free pardon, shall not be appointed a Board member. 5.–(1) The Board of Directors shall meet at least four times a year and
at other times as may be necessary or expedient for the transactions of
business. (2) An ordinary meeting of the Board of Directors shall be convened
by the Chairman and the notice specifying the place, date and time of
the meeting shall be sent to each member at his usual place of business
or residence not less than fourteen days before the date of the meeting.

me of
the meeting shall be sent to each member at his usual place of business
or residence not less than fourteen days before the date of the meeting.

(3) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (2), where the
Chairman is unable to act by reason of illness, absence from Tanzania, or
other sufficient cause, the Vice- Chairman may convene such meeting. (4) The Chairman shall be bound to convene a special meeting
of the Board of Directors upon receipt of a request in writing in that
behalf, signed by not less than three members of the Board, not less
than fourteen days notice of the meeting shall be given to members of
the Board in the manner prescribed in sub-paragraph (2). (5) The Board may co-opt any person to attend any deliberations of
the meeting as an expert but that co-opted person shall not be allowed
to vote. Vice-Chairman
Tenure of office
Disqualification
of a Board
member
Meeting of Board

as an expert but that co-opted person shall not be allowed
to vote. Vice-Chairman
Tenure of office
Disqualification
of a Board
member
Meeting of Board

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.138
THE COTTON INDUSTRY ACT [CAP. 201 R.E. 2023]
6.–(1) Three of the members of the Board shall constitute a quorum at
any meeting and acts, matters and things to be done by the Board shall
be decided by a simple majority of the members present. (2) A member of the Board shall have one vote and in the event of
equality of votes the Chairman of the meeting shall have a casting vote
in addition to his normal vote. 7. Where a Board member is unable for any reason to attend the
meeting of the Board or the Committee of the Board as the case may be,
where it is not possible for the Appointing Authority to appoint another
member, he may, in writing nominate another person in his place for
the purpose of that meeting. 8. Subject to the provisions of paragraph 6, the Board of Directors may
act notwithstanding any vacancy in the members thereof and an act or
proceedings of the Board shall not be invalid by reason only of some
defect in the appointment of a person who purport, to be a member
thereof. 9.

or
proceedings of the Board shall not be invalid by reason only of some
defect in the appointment of a person who purport, to be a member
thereof. 9.

A Director who is in any way directly or indirectly personally
interested in a contract or proposed contract or any matter being
deliberated by the Board shall declare the nature of his interest and
abstain in the deliberations in respect thereof. 10. Minutes in proper form of each meeting of the Board shall be kept
and confirmed by the Board at its next meeting and signed by the
Chairman of the meeting. 11. A circular resolution in writing signed by the Directors for the time
being in Tanzania shall be as effectual as a decision made at a meeting
provided that a member resolution may require that, notwithstanding
the Directors’ signatures the matter be brought at the following Board
meeting. 12. The Chairman and other members of the Board shall be entitled to
allowances and at the rates as the Minister may approve. 13. Subject to the provisions of this Act, the Board shall have power
to regulate its own procedures in respect of meetings and the proper
conduct of its business. Quorum
Alternate
member
Defects in
appointment
not to invalidate
proceeding
Conflict of
interest
Minutes
Circular
resolution
Board members
to be paid
allowances
Power to regulate
its procedure