The Seeds Act

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CHAPTER 308
THE SEEDS ACT
[PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION]
Arrangement of Sections
Section Title
part i
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. Short title.
2. Interpretation.
part ii
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL SEEDS COMMITTEE
3. Establishment of National Seeds Committee.
4. Committee membership.
5. Functions of Committee.
6. Meetings of Committee.
7. Establishment of sub-committees.
8. Seed inspector, sampler and analyst.
9. Engagement in seed activities.
10. Issuance of permits.
11. Establishment of Seed Certification Institute.
12. Delegation of powers of Minister.
13. Minister to make orders.
part iii
IMPORTATION, EXPORTATION AND SALES OF SEEDS
14. Condition for importation, exportation and sale of seeds.
15. Seeds standards.
16. Compensation for loss caused by seed.
part iv
REGISTRATION OF SEEDS DEALERS
17. Registration of seed seller.
18. Issuance of certificate of registration.
19. Cancellation of certificate of registration.
20. Appeals.
21. Prohibition.

gistration of seed seller.
18. Issuance of certificate of registration.
19. Cancellation of certificate of registration.
20. Appeals.
21. Prohibition.

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
22. Duty to keep records.
23. Approval and listing of varieties.
24. Powers of inspectors.
25. Substandard seeds.
26. Obstruction of inspectors.
27. Analysis of sample.
28. Recognition of seed certification agencies of foreign countries.
29. Tempering with samples.
part v
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
30. Offences and penalties.
31. Offences by body corporate or firm.
32. Evidence.
33. Limitation.
34. Indemnity.
35. Exempted sales.
36. Repeal and savings.
37. Compounding of offences.
38. Power to make regulations.
SCHEDULE

dence.
33. Limitation.
34. Indemnity.
35. Exempted sales.
36. Repeal and savings.
37. Compounding of offences.
38. Power to make regulations.
SCHEDULE

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PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. This Act may be cited as the Seeds Act. 2.

f this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.547
PART I
PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS
1. This Act may be cited as the Seeds Act. 2.

In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires-
“advertisement” includes any statement, picture, design or
device-
(a) published in any newspaper or other publication in
general circulation to the public; or
(b) contained in any publication or any other matter in
any form which is distributed to members of the public
through the public or brought to the public in any other
manner;
“analyst” means a person appointed or designated as analyst
pursuant to section 8;
“basic grade” with respect to seeds means the approved
progeny of breeders seed produced by seed growers
authorised by the institute for production of this grade
and which has been managed as to maintain genetic
purity and identity to provide a source for the initial and
recurring increase of seeds; or if of foreign origin, that the
seed is certified by a recognised certification agency or by
the Chief Seed Quality Controller as being of basic grade;
Short title
Interpretation
CHAPTER 308
THE SEEDS ACT
An Act to make provisions for the control and regulation of the standards of
agricultural seeds and for matters incidental to and therewith. [1st February, 2005]
[GN. No.85 of 2005]
Acts Nos.

and regulation of the standards of
agricultural seeds and for matters incidental to and therewith. [1st February, 2005]
[GN. No.85 of 2005]
Acts Nos.

18 of 2003
2 of 2010
4 of 2014
3 of 2020

18 of 2003
2 of 2010
4 of 2014
3 of 2020

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E.

ent of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.548
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E.

2023]
“breeders grade” means approved seed of a variety that has
been produced by the breeder responsible for breeding
and maintenance of that variety under condition which
ensure that the specific characteristics of the variety
are maintained and which provide the source for the
initial land recurrent increases of seeds of the pedigree
grades; or if of foreign origin, that the seed is certified
by a recognised certification agency as being of breeders
grade;
“Certification Institute” means an Institute appointed by the
Minister pursuant to section 11;
“certified grade” means the approved progeny of breeder,
foundation, registered or certified seed managed to
maintain satisfactory genetic identity and purity the
production of which is supervised and approved by the
Institute and which provides the source of the initial and
recurring increase of seeds; or if of foreign origin, that
the seed is certified by a recognised certification agency
or by the Chief Quality Controller as being of certified
grade;
“Committee” means the National Seed Committee
established under section 3 of this Act;
“class name” includes any mark, description or designation
of a class;
“inspector” means a person appointed or designated as an
inspector pursuant to section 8;
“Director” means a person responsible for agricultural
development;
“label” includes any legend, word, mark, symbol or design
applied or attached to, included in, belonging to or
accompanying any seed or package;
“Minister” means the Minister responsible for agriculture;
“noxious weed seed” means any seed potentially injurious
to agriculture so declared by the Minister by notice
published in the Gazette to be noxious weed seed for the
purposes of this Act;

entially injurious
to agriculture so declared by the Minister by notice
published in the Gazette to be noxious weed seed for the
purposes of this Act;

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E.

ent of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.549
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E.

2023]
“package” includes a sack, bag, barrel, case or any other
container in which seed is placed or packed;
“place” includes any building, vehicle, vessel, railway, car or
aircraft;
“person” includes an individual, corporation, society,
association, enterprise, trustee, receiver or any other
institution;
“Quality Declared Seed” means seed produced by a registered
smallholder farmer which conforms to the specified
standards for crop species concerned and which has been
subject to the quality control measures prescribed in the
regulations to be made under this Act;
“Recognised Certification Agency” means a registered
certification agency of a country, which is a member to
an International Seed Organisation to which Tanzania
is also a member or an official seed certification agency
from a country, whose seed quality standards have been
approved by the Director to be similar or higher than
those prescribed under this Act or regulations;
“standard seed” means emergency seed authorised for use
by the Minister;
“seed” means that part of plant which is or is intended to
be used for propagation and includes any true seed, any
vegetative material including seedling, corn, cutting,
bulb, bulbil, layer, marcott, root, runner, scion, set, split,
stem, stock, stump, sucker or tuber used or intended to
be used;
“seed dealer” includes importers, exporters, processors,
producers, sellers and distributors of seeds and owners of
seed testing laboratories or any other person dealing with
seed under this Act;
“sell” includes sell, offer for sell, expose for sell, have in
possession for sale, and distribution or give away;
“sub-committee” means seed sub-committee established
under section 7;
“Tanzania Pedigree Class” means a class that contains one
of the words;

ve away;
“sub-committee” means seed sub-committee established
under section 7;
“Tanzania Pedigree Class” means a class that contains one
of the words;

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
“Breeders”, “Basic”, “Certified 1”, “Certified 2”, where 1,
means first generation and 2 means second generation;
“variety” means plant variety;
“weed seed” means any plant injurious to agriculture, which
is declared to be so by the Minister for the purpose of the
Plant Health Act. PART II
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL
SEEDS COMMITTEE
3. There is hereby established a technical Committee to be
known as the National Seeds Committee.

ART II
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NATIONAL
SEEDS COMMITTEE
3. There is hereby established a technical Committee to be
known as the National Seeds Committee.

4.–(1) The National Seeds Committee shall be composed of
the following members-
(a) the Chairman appointed by the Minister among persons
not holding any political post or Chief Executives of
the Government;
(b) the officer responsible for co-ordination and supervision
of the seeds industry in the Ministry and shall be the
secretary to the Committee;
(c) the head of the division in the Ministry for the time
being responsible for crop research;
(d) the head of the division in the Ministry for the time
being responsible for crop development;
(e) the Chief Seed Quality Controller; and
(f) the Registrar of Plant Varieties. (2) The Minister shall appoint the following to be members
of the National Seeds Committee-
(a) a representative from the Tanzania Seed Trade
Association;
(b) a representative from higher learning institution
responsible for agriculture; and
(c) a representative from seed consumers’ association. Cap. 133
Establishment of
National Seeds
Committee
Committee
membership
Act No. 2 of 2010 s. 31

(c) a representative from seed consumers’ association. Cap. 133
Establishment of
National Seeds
Committee
Committee
membership
Act No. 2 of 2010 s. 31

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(3) The Chairman of the Committee may after consultation
with members co-opt other members to attend and speak on
any matter at any meeting of the Committee, but a person
co-opted shall not have the right to vote. 5.–(1) The National Seeds Committee shall be a stakeholders’
forum responsible for advising the Government on all matters
relating to the development of the Tanzania seed industry. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), the
functions of the National Seeds Committee shall include to-
(a) advise the Ministry on formulation and implementation
of the seed industry policy and implementation of
guidelines;
(b) advise the Ministry on the implementation and
amendment of the seeds legislation;
(c) advise the Minister on all matters relating to seeds;
(d) give general advice in the co-ordination and supervision
of the seed industry;
(e) advise the Minister on approval of plant varieties. 6. The Committee shall regulate its own procedures of
conducting its meetings. 7.

ed industry;
(e) advise the Minister on approval of plant varieties. 6. The Committee shall regulate its own procedures of
conducting its meetings. 7.

The National Seeds Committee may, for the purpose of
effective implementation of the functions of the Committee,
establish such number of sub-committees to perform specific
functions as it may deem necessary. 8.–(1) The Minister shall, by notice published in the Gazette,
appoint or designate qualified persons to be Chief Seeds
Certification Officer, seeds inspectors, samplers and analysts
who shall exercise powers in accordance with the provisions
of this Act. (2) For proper seeds inspection, the Minister may,
in consultation with the Minister responsible for local
government, establish the modalities for the appointment and
accountability of the inspector, samplers or analysts of the
local government authorities levels. Functions of
Committee
Meetings of
Committee
Establishment of
sub-committees
Seed inspector,
sampler and
analyst
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 20

ities levels. Functions of
Committee
Meetings of
Committee
Establishment of
sub-committees
Seed inspector,
sampler and
analyst
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 20

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(3) Every officer appointed or designated pursuant to
subsection (1) shall be issued a certificate, identity card or a
document as a proof of his appointment or designation and
such documents shall be produced on entering at any place in
the exercise of powers under this Act. (4) The Chief Seeds Certification Officer may permit an
analyst to perform internal seeds quality control for a private
specified producer, processor and seller or distributer of seeds. 9.–(1) A person shall not, when holding the office of Chief Seeds
Inspector Certification, inspector, sampler or analyst, engage
in any business connected to seeds production, processing,
marketing, importation, exportation or distribution either by
himself or by agent. (2) A person who contravenes subsection (1), commits
an offence and on conviction, shall be liable to a fine of not
less than five million shillings and not more than ten million
shillings or to imprisonment for a term of not less than three
years and not more than five years or to both.

shillings and not more than ten million
shillings or to imprisonment for a term of not less than three
years and not more than five years or to both.

(3) For the purposes of section 8 and this section “authorised
inspector, sampler and analyst” means a persons authorised to
undertake seed quality control activities for and on behalf of
the Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute. [s. 8A]
10. The Chief Seed Quality Controller may permit a private
specified producer, processor, seller or distributor to employ
an analyst appointed under section 8 to effect the internal seed
quality control. [s. 9]
11.–(1) There is hereby established a body cooperate to be
known as the Tanzania Official Seeds Certification Institute or
in its acronym “TOSCI” which shall-
(a) have perpetual succession and a common seal;
(b) be capable of entering into contracts in its own name;
and
Engagement in
seed activities
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 21
Issuance of
permits
Establishment of
Seed Certification
Institute

contracts in its own name;
and
Engagement in
seed activities
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 21
Issuance of
permits
Establishment of
Seed Certification
Institute

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(c) be capable of purchasing or acquiring any movable and
immovable property. (2) Any proceedings against the Institute in contract may
only be instituted by or against the Government in accordance
with the Government Proceedings Act. (3) The provisions of the Schedule to this Act shall have
effect as to the constitution, tenure of office, management and
proceedings of and other matters relating to the Governing
Council of the Institute. [s. 10]
12.–(1) The Minister may, with the exception of his power of
delegation, assign or delegate some or all of his powers under
this Act to any competent institution or individual. (2) Every assignment or delegation shall be revocable at
will, and delegation shall not prevent the exercise of any power
by the Minister. (3) In exercising the powers of delegation, assignment or
appointment, the Minister may enter into contracts with
competent institutions or individuals under such terms and
conditions as the Minister may determine. [s. 11]
13.

inister may enter into contracts with
competent institutions or individuals under such terms and
conditions as the Minister may determine. [s. 11]
13.

The Minister may make orders-
(a) prescribing the varieties of the seeds of which may be
sold in Tanzania or imported into Tanzania;
(b) classifying the species of plants the seeds of which he
deems are weed seeds or noxious seed weed in relation
to seed classes under this Act;
(c) in respect of the detention of anything seized or placed
under stop sale under the provisions of this Act and for
the preservation or safeguarding anything detained; or
(d) in respect of the disposition of anything forfeited to the
Government under this Act. [s. 12]
Cap. 5
Delegation
of powers of
Minister
Minister to make
orders

ect of the disposition of anything forfeited to the
Government under this Act. [s. 12]
Cap. 5
Delegation
of powers of
Minister
Minister to make
orders

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
PART III
IMPORTATION, EXPORTATION
AND SALES OF SEEDS
14.–(1) A person, who intends to deal with importation,
exportation, production, processing, distribution, sale or
advertisement for sale of seeds shall obtain a permit from the
Director or any other person authorised by the Director. (2) The Director shall, before granting the permit or licence
required under subsection (1) ensure that the standards
and conditions for importation, production, processing,
distribution, sale or advertisement for sale of seeds, as
provided for in the Plant Health Act and in this Act, have been
complied with. (3) The Minister shall for the purpose of this Act, prescribe
the plant varieties and standards of the seeds for importation,
exportation, production, processing and distribution. (4) A person who contravenes or fails to comply with a
provision of this section, orders or regulations made under
this Act in respect of matters specified in this section, commits
an offence. [s.

y with a
provision of this section, orders or regulations made under
this Act in respect of matters specified in this section, commits
an offence. [s.

13]
15.–(1) A person who-
(a) sells, displays for sale, imports, exports any seed under
a class name or designation so closely resembling a
class name prescribed under this Act so as is likely to
be mistaken; or
(b) applies, to any seed or package containing seed, a class
name prescribed under this Act so as is likely to be
mistaken,
shall have the duty to ensure that, the seed meets the
requirements prescribed for the class name and is marked,
packed and labeled according to the provisions of this Act. (2) A person who, produces or acquires any prescribed seed
which has not been tested pursuant to this section or deemed to
have been tested under this Act and intends to sell the same for
Condition for
importation,
exportation and
sale of seeds
Cap. 133
Seeds standards
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 22

er this Act and intends to sell the same for
Condition for
importation,
exportation and
sale of seeds
Cap. 133
Seeds standards
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 22

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
sowing, shall, prior to offering the same for sale, cause a sample
to be taken in the manner prescribed, and delivered to the
institute together with a written statement specifying the origin,
kind, variety and quantity of the seed, and other particulars as
may be prescribed and pay the fees required for testing.

ement specifying the origin,
kind, variety and quantity of the seed, and other particulars as
may be prescribed and pay the fees required for testing.

(3) A person who sells for sowing, any prescribed seed which
has been tested or deemed to have been tested in accordance
with the provisions of this Act and found to conform to the
prescribed standards shall-
(a) where the prescribed seed is sold in sealed containers,
cause to be printed or stamped upon each container a
label attached or enclosed in clear and legible letters or
figures, the following particulars-
(i) the name and address of the dealer;
(ii) the seed class;
(iii) the name and percentage by weight of each in the
mixture, in order of its predominance;
(iv) the name of the variety of each plant species in the
mixture;
(v) the germination percentage of each component of
the mixture, in order of its predominance;
(vi) month and year of germination test;
(vii) in the case of a seed that is imported, the name of
the country of production; and
(viii) such other particulars as may be prescribed in the
regulations.

the case of a seed that is imported, the name of
the country of production; and
(viii) such other particulars as may be prescribed in the
regulations.

(b) where the prescribed seed is sold in bulk quantities and
a seller is-
(i) a person who caused the test to be made, furnish to
the buyer at the time of sale a statement in writing
in the prescribed form, containing the name and
address of the certifying agency where the test was
made, the date of the test, and a declaration of the
seller that the bulk quantity sold is all or part of
that from where tested was taken, together with
such other particulars as may be prescribed in the
regulations;

e bulk quantity sold is all or part of
that from where tested was taken, together with
such other particulars as may be prescribed in the
regulations;

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(ii) not a person who caused the test to be made or
furnished a copy of the statement to the buyer at
the time of sale, in accordance with the provisions
of subparagraph (i); or
(iii) a person who caused such test to be made, endorse
there upon a declaration that the bulk quantity
sold is all or part to which the statement related
at the time he procured the same, together with a
statement of the seller containing other particulars
as may be prescribed in the regulations.

elated
at the time he procured the same, together with a
statement of the seller containing other particulars
as may be prescribed in the regulations.

(4) A registered seed dealer shall not produce, process, test,
sale, import, export or distribute any seed unless-
(a) such seed is an approved variety for use in Tanzania and
its production, processing, testing, sale or importation
has been made subject to conditions or limitations
prescribed in this Act;
(b) such seed conforms to the standards of germination
and purity and other requirements prescribed;
(c) such seed is packed in a container that complies with
the requirements prescribed in the regulations;
(d) where it is imported, the genus, species and variety of
such seed, and the country of its origin, is shown in the
invoice or delivery not accompanying such seed at the
time of its importation; or
(e) such seed has previously been tested in accordance
with the provisions of this Act and has been found to
be of standards of germination and purity prescribed
for such seed. (5) A person who-
(a) sells seed which is not certified under the provisions of
this Act;
(b) sells or intends to sale or distribute any seed which
upon test by the authorised inspector or the institute is
found not to conform to the standards of germination

ds to sale or distribute any seed which
upon test by the authorised inspector or the institute is
found not to conform to the standards of germination

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
and purity prescribed for such seed, or is one reported
in the prescribed test results not be sold by any person
for sowing;
(c) sells for sowing, any prescribed seed under any
description other than its varietal name;
(d) sells in bulk quantities, any seed for sowing, without
having in his possession or under his control, a
prescribed certificate or a copy issued or furnished
under this Act;
(e) sells certified seed or imported certified seed, for
sowing, and fails to furnish to the buyer, at the time of
such sale, a prescribed certificate or a copy of certificate
required to be furnished in respect of such seed; or
(f) tests, or purports to test, any prescribed seed, in any
place not being registered or approved by the Institute,
commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable to a fine
of not less than one hundred million shillings and not more
than five hundred million shillings or to imprisonment for a
term of not less than five years and not more than twelve years
or to both.

and not more
than five hundred million shillings or to imprisonment for a
term of not less than five years and not more than twelve years
or to both.

(6) On conviction for an offence under this section, the
court may in addition to a penalty imposed, order any seed
or equipment used in commission of offence to be forfeited or
destroyed, without compensation. (7) It shall be a responsibility of a seed dealer to ensure
quality of his own seed by establishing internal system of
quality control and adherence to the provisions of this Act. (8) It shall be the duty of the Chief Seeds Certification
Officer, inspector, sampler or analyst to establish the extent of
damage suffered by another as a result of offence committed
under this Act. [s. 14]
16.–(1) Where a person is convicted by a court of any
offence for contravention of section 15, and it appears from
the evidence of Chief Seeds Certification Officer, inspector,
sampler or analyst that some other person, being a farmer or
Compensation
for loss caused
by seed
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 22

fication Officer, inspector,
sampler or analyst that some other person, being a farmer or
Compensation
for loss caused
by seed
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 22

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.558
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
a person who ordinarily is expected to use seeds which are the
subject of the offence committed, has suffered material loss or
personal injury in consequence of the offence committed and
that substantial compensation is, in the opinion of the court,
recoverable by that person by civil suit, the court may, in its
discretion and in addition to any other lawful punishment,
order the person convicted to pay to that other person such
compensation, in kind or in money, as the court deems fair
and reasonable. (2) Where a person is convicted of any offence under
section 15, the power conferred on the court by subsection (1)
shall be deemed to include a power to award compensation to
any purchaser of any seeds in good faith in relation to which
the offence was committed for the loss of crops that ordinarily
would have been grown or such other pecuniary loss that is
directly or indirectly caused if the seed failed to grow or is
destroyed or otherwise declared to be unfit for use. [s.

h other pecuniary loss that is
directly or indirectly caused if the seed failed to grow or is
destroyed or otherwise declared to be unfit for use. [s.

14A]
PART IV
REGISTRATION OF SEEDS DEALERS
17.–(1) A person shall not deal in seed business in Tanzania,
unless he is registered in accordance with the provisions of
this Act. (2) A person who imports, exports, produces, processes,
distributes or sells shall, before commencing the business,
register with the Institute. (3) A person, who owns or operates a seed processing
factory or seed testing laboratory shall, before commencing
business, obtain certificate of registration from the Institute. (4) An application for registration under this section shall
be made to the Institute in the form and manner prescribed in
the regulations. Registration of
seed seller
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 23

this section shall
be made to the Institute in the form and manner prescribed in
the regulations. Registration of
seed seller
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 23

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(5) The Chief Seeds Certification Officer shall, after receipt
of application and upon being-
(a) satisfied that the applicant complies with the prescribed
requirements, enter the name, address and principal
business address of the applicant in the appropriate
register as a registered seed dealer and issue certificate
of registration in the prescribed form; or
(b) dissatisfied that the applicant complies with the
prescribed requirements, require the applicant to
correct the defects in the application or refuse to
register the applicant. (6) The Institute shall, if it deems necessary for the purposes
of consideration of the application, make inspection on such
holdings, warehousing, storage and other facilities which the
applicant proposes to use in the business of a seed dealer. (7) Any registration under this section shall, unless
cancelled, be valid until the expiry of time provided for in the
registration certificate.

aler. (7) Any registration under this section shall, unless
cancelled, be valid until the expiry of time provided for in the
registration certificate.

(8) A person who contravenes preceding provisions of this
section commits an offence and on conviction, shall be liable
to a fine of not less than five million shillings and not more
than ten million or to imprisonment for a term of not less than
three years and not more than five years or to both. [s. 15]
18.–(1) The Director shall, after granting the registration, issue
a certificate of registration to a seed dealer subject to such
terms and conditions as may be determined by the Minister. (2) A registration certificate granted shall be conspicuously
displayed on the business premises of a registered seed dealer. [s. 16]
19.–(1) The Director may, where he is satisfied that any
conditions subject to which a seed dealer was registered have
not been complied with, cancel the certificate of registration
issued to a seed dealer. Issuance of
certificate of
registration
Cancellation
of certificate of
registration

h, cancel the certificate of registration
issued to a seed dealer. Issuance of
certificate of
registration
Cancellation
of certificate of
registration

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THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(2) The Director shall not cancel the registration of a seed
dealer under this section unless the dealer has been given an
opportunity to show cause as to why the registration should
not be cancelled. [s. 17]
20. A person who is not satisfied by the decision of the Director
for refusal of registration, cancellation of registration or permit
under the provisions of this Act may, within thirty days, appeal
to the Minister whose decision shall be final. [s. 18]
21.–(1) A person shall not-
(a) import, export, produce, process, distribute or sell
seeds unless he is registered as such under this Act; or
(b) test, process or multiply seeds otherwise than in a
registered laboratory seed processing factory or a seed
multiplication farm. (2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), this Act shall not be
construed as preventing the sale of quality declared seeds as
such to a neighbour farmer, whereby such seeds are grown by
a smallholder farmer for use as seeds in his own farm.

e sale of quality declared seeds as
such to a neighbour farmer, whereby such seeds are grown by
a smallholder farmer for use as seeds in his own farm.

(3) Where a registered seed dealer contracts any person to
import, export, produce, process, distribute or sell seeds, that
person shall be bound by the terms and conditions provided
for under this Act. [s. 19]
22.–(1) Every producer, processor, seller or distributor of
seeds shall have the duty to keep within his premises, detailed
records, by lot, of seed produced, purchased, sold, tested, and
labelled or treated and such records shall be provided to the
inspector whenever requested. (2) A person who contravenes the provisions of this section,
commits an offence and on conviction shall be liable to a fine
not exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a
term not exceeding three months or to both. [s. 20]
Appeals
Prohibition
Duty to keep
records

exceeding one million shillings or to imprisonment for a
term not exceeding three months or to both. [s. 20]
Appeals
Prohibition
Duty to keep
records

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.561
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
23.–(1) The Minister shall upon advice by the National Seeds
Committee approve any new plant variety. (2) The Director shall establish and maintain a national
catalogue of approved plant varieties and shall cause to be
entered therein varieties imported, sold or distributed in
Tanzania. (3) Subject to the recommendations of the National Seeds
Committee, the Director shall publish in the Gazette the seed
varieties entered in the national catalogue. [s. 21]
24.–(1) An inspector may, at any reasonable time, enter any
place where he reasonably believes there is any seed to which
this Act applies and may open any package found therein that
he has reasons to believe contains such seed and may sample
the same for the purpose of ensuring that the provisions of this
Act or of any regulations or orders made under this Act are
being complied with.

mple
the same for the purpose of ensuring that the provisions of this
Act or of any regulations or orders made under this Act are
being complied with.

(2) An inspector may, for the purposes of securing
compliance with the provisions of this Act or of any regulations
or orders made under this Act or for the purposes of detecting
and establishing any breach of any such provisions-
(a) conduct field inspection and or take samples of any seed
found in any package or place and submit such samples
to the official seeds testing laboratory for testing; or
(b) require any person to produce for inspection or for
the purpose of obtaining copies thereof or extracts
therefrom, any books, shipping bills, bills of lading
or other documents or papers relating to any seed to
which this Act applies. (3) The owner or person in charge of any premises described
under this section and every person found therein, shall give
to an inspector all reasonable assistance in his power to enable
the inspector to carry out his duties and functions under
this Act. Approval and
listing of varieties
Powers of
inspectors

ance in his power to enable
the inspector to carry out his duties and functions under
this Act. Approval and
listing of varieties
Powers of
inspectors

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.562
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(4) An inspector may where he has reasonable grounds,
that any of the provisions of this Act or regulations or orders
made under this Act has been violated, seize, issue or stop sale
of the seeds or package by means of or in relation to which the
violation was committed:
Provided that, any seeds or package seized or placed under
stop sale pursuant to this subsection shall not be detained
after-
(a) the provisions of this Act and the regulations and orders
have, in the opinion of the Inspector, been complied
with; or
(b) the expiration of three months from the day of seizure
or stop sale, unless before that date proceedings have
been instituted in respect of the violation, in which
event the seeds or package may be detained until the
proceedings are finally concluded. (5) An inspector shall, before inspection of the premises,
take such steps as are reasonably practical to afford the owner
of any seeds an opportunity to be present while an inspection
under this Act is being carried out. [s.

as are reasonably practical to afford the owner
of any seeds an opportunity to be present while an inspection
under this Act is being carried out. [s.

22]
25.–(1) Where an inspector is satisfied that any seed regulated
by this Act is unfit for intended purpose or the provisions of
this Act, he may-
(a) affix to that seed a mark, seal or other designation to
stop selling such seed or seed lot;
(b) without compensation, destroy or dispose of that seed
in any way at owner’s cost; or
(c) take such seed to a post-entry quarantine station for
further inspection, treatment and disposal. (2) An inspector shall, before destroying or disposing of any
seed in any way other than in accordance with subsection (1)-
(a) record or cause to be recorded-
(i) a description or other particulars of the seed or
seed lot;
Substandard
seeds
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 24

ion (1)-
(a) record or cause to be recorded-
(i) a description or other particulars of the seed or
seed lot;
Substandard
seeds
Act No. 4 of 2014 s. 24

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.563
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(ii) description of premises where the seed was found;
(iii) any witness available and his signature; and
(iv) the grounds upon which his decision have
been made. (b) forward a report containing particulars stipulated in
paragraph (a) to the Chief Seeds Certification Officer. [s. 22A]
26. A person, being the owner or person entrusted with the
charge and custody of any seed lot who-
(a) refuses to allow the inspector to take a sample of the
seed from any premises which he is authorised under
this Act to take a sample or who otherwise wilfully
delays or obstructs the inspector; or
(b) wilfully makes false or misleading statement either
verbally or in writing to the inspector or other official
engaged in carrying out his duties or functions under
this Act,
commits an offence. [s. 23]
27. An analyst, who receives a sample taken under the
provisions of this Act from an inspector, shall as soon as is
practicable analyse the same, and shall give a report in the
prescribed form specifying the result of the analysis. [s.

inspector, shall as soon as is
practicable analyse the same, and shall give a report in the
prescribed form specifying the result of the analysis. [s.

24]
28. The Minister may, on the recommendation of the Institute
and by notice published in the Gazette, recognise for the
purposes of this Act, any seed certification agency established
in any foreign country. [s. 24A]
29. Any person, who fraudulently tampers or interferes with
any seed lot that any sample of it is taken or submitted for
analysis under this Act does not correctly represent the seed
Obstruction of
inspectors
Analysis of
sample
Recognition of
seed certification
agencies of
foreign countries
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 80
Tempering with
samples

uction of
inspectors
Analysis of
sample
Recognition of
seed certification
agencies of
foreign countries
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 80
Tempering with
samples

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.564
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
lot, or fraudulently tampers or interferes with any sample taken
or submitted for analysis under this Act, commits an offence. [s. 25]
PART V
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
30.–(1) A person, who contravenes a provision of this Act or
of any subsidiary legislation made under this Act, commits an
offence and on conviction except as otherwise provided, shall
be liable to a fine of not less than one million shillings but not
exceeding fifty million shillings or to imprisonment for a term
not exceeding five years or to both. (2) The court may, in addition to any penalty imposed under
this Act, order any article in respect of which such offence has
been committed or which has been used for the commission of
such offence to be forfeited. (3) The Minister shall be responsible for the disposal of
anything forfeited to the Government under subsection (2).

of
such offence to be forfeited. (3) The Minister shall be responsible for the disposal of
anything forfeited to the Government under subsection (2).

(4) Where an offence has been committed and by reason
of that commission a person has suffered a direct damage or
loss of his property, the court may, in addition to the penalty
provided for under subsection (1), order the offender to
compensate the person who has suffered such loss or damage. (5) The court may, in the case of a persistent offender, order,
in addition to penalties provided for under this section, the
withdrawal of any permit or, certificate of registration or any
other right held by the offender under this Act. [s. 26]
31.–(1) Any act which if done by an individual would be an
offence against this Act or any regulations or orders made
under this Act shall, if done by a body corporate, be an offence
by every director, secretary and manager thereof unless he
proves that the offence was committed without his consent or
Offences and
penalties
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 81
Offences by body
corporate or firm

less he
proves that the offence was committed without his consent or
Offences and
penalties
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 81
Offences by body
corporate or firm

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.565
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
connivance and that he exercised all such diligence to prevent
the commission of the offence as he ought to have exercised
having regard to the nature of his functions in that capacity
and to all circumstances. (2) Where an offence against this Act or any regulations or
orders made under this Act has been committed by a partner
in a firm, every person who at the time of the commission of
the offence was partner in that firm, or was purporting to act in
that capacity, shall be deemed to have committed that offence
unless he proves that the offence was committed without his
consent and or connivance and he exercised all such diligence
to prevent the commission of the offence as he ought to have
exercised having regard to the nature of his functions in that
capacity and to all the circumstances. [s.

ommission of the offence as he ought to have
exercised having regard to the nature of his functions in that
capacity and to all the circumstances. [s.

27]
32.–(1) Any document purporting to be a report under the
hand of an analyst appointed under the provisions of this
Act, on any sample duly submitted to him for analysis and
report, may be admitted in evidence in any civil or criminal
proceedings relating to the seed sampled without further
proof, and shall be sufficient evidence of the facts stated
therein unless the defendant or person charged requires that
the analyst be called as a witness. (2) Where the defendant or person charged requires that
the analyst be called as a witness, he shall pay any reasonable
costs incurred by such analyst in attending the trial. (3) A sample which has been taken in the prescribed manner
by an inspector shall, unless proved otherwise be deemed to
be of the same composition to have the same qualities and to
possess in all other respects the same properties of the seed lot
from which it was drawn. [s. 28]
33. Proceedings in respect of an offence under this Act or
under any subsidiary legislation made under this Act shall not
be instituted after the expiry of two years from the date when
Evidence
Limitation

t or
under any subsidiary legislation made under this Act shall not
be instituted after the expiry of two years from the date when
Evidence
Limitation

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.566
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
the subject matter of the proceedings arose, if the offence is a
misrepresentation of the plant variety name or purity of the
plant variety. [s. 29]
34. Without prejudice to the provisions of section 284A of
the Penal Code, matter done by any person exercising or
purporting to exercise any function under this Act or under
any subsidiary legislation made under this Act shall not if
done in good faith in the execution or purported execution of
the functions under any of the provisions of this Act or such
subsidiary legislation, subject any such person to any action
liability, claim or demand whatsoever. [s. 30]
35.–(1) The provisions of this Act shall not apply to a sale, offer
or exposure for sell, where such sale is made by a bailiff, court
broker or other officer in the course of executing any order or
process of a court.

or exposure for sell, where such sale is made by a bailiff, court
broker or other officer in the course of executing any order or
process of a court.

(2) The term “sell” under subsection (1) shall not be
construed to mean selling of seeds or anything, which
otherwise does not meet quality standards prescribed under
this Act or regulations made under this Act. [s. 31]
36.–(1) [Repeals Seed (Regulations of Standards) Act, No. 29
of 1973]
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), any applicable
regulations, rules, order or notice made under the repealed
Act, shall remain in force until such time as it is revoked,
cancelled or replaced. [s. 32]
37.–(1) Notwithstanding the provisions of this Act relating
to penalties, where a person admits in writing that he has
committed an offence under this Act or any other sector
legislation, the Chief Seed Certification Officer or a person
authorised by him in writing may, at any time prior to the
Indemnity
Cap. 16
Exempted sales
Repeal and
savings
Compounding
of offences
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 82

ed by him in writing may, at any time prior to the
Indemnity
Cap. 16
Exempted sales
Repeal and
savings
Compounding
of offences
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 82

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.567
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
commencement of the proceedings by a court of competent
jurisdiction, compound such offence and order such person to
pay a sum of money not exceeding one half of the amount of
fine to which such person would otherwise have been liable to
pay if he had been convicted of such offence. (2) Where the person fails to comply with compounding
order issued under this section within the prescribed period,
the Chief Seed Certification Officer or a person authorised by
him may, in addition to the sum ordered, require the person to
pay an interest at the rate prescribed in the regulations. (3) Where the person fails to comply with subsection (2), the
Chief Seed Certification Officer may enforce the compounding
order and interest accrued thereof in the same manner as a
decree of a court. (4) The Chief Seed Certification Officer shall submit
quarterly reports of all compounded offences under this
section to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Chief Seed Certification Officer shall submit
quarterly reports of all compounded offences under this
section to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

(5) Forms and manner of compounding of offences shall be
as prescribed in the regulations made under this Act. [s. 32A]
38.–(1) The Minister may, after consultation with the
Committee, make regulations for the better carrying into effect
of the provisions of this Act. (2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1),
the Minister may make regulations-
(a) prescribing various forms to be applied under various
provisions of this Act;
(b) prescribing the manner in which-
(i) returns and information shall be rendered or
furnished;
(ii) seeds intended for sale shall be packed, labelled,
marked and sealed, and the manner in which
seeds may be advertised or exposed for sale; and
(iii) seed samples are to be taken and dealt with;
(c) prescribing the methods by which analyses are to be
carried out by analysts under the provisions of this Act;
Power to make
regulations
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 83

ng the methods by which analyses are to be
carried out by analysts under the provisions of this Act;
Power to make
regulations
Act No. 3 of 2020 s. 83

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.568
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(d) prescribing the terms and conditions and the manner
in which seed may be inspected, classified and tested;
(e) prescribing the minimum field and seed standards for
pre-basic, basic, certified 1, certified 2, quality declared
seed and also seed standards for standard seed class;
(f) prescribing standards for a seed testing laboratory,
processing factory, seed warehouses, seed selling or
distribution points shops;
(g) prescribing procedures for the establishment of quality
declared seed production;
(h) prescribing the fees that may be charged for any services
rendered under this Act; and
(i) generally prescribing anything which requires to be
prescribed under this Act. (3) The Minister may restrict the application of any of
the regulations made under the provisions of subsection (1)
to specialised areas or to any group or groups of people or
premises. (4) Regulations made under this section may provide for
penalties for the breach thereof not in excess of the penalties
mentioned in this Act.

emises. (4) Regulations made under this section may provide for
penalties for the breach thereof not in excess of the penalties
mentioned in this Act.

(5) All regulations made under this section shall be
published in the Government Gazette. [s. 33]
SCHEDULE
(Made under section (11(3))
CONSTITUTION, FUNCTIONS AND MANAGEMENT
OF THE SEED CERTIFICATION INSTITUTE
1. The power to carry out the functions and management of the business
and affairs of the Institute shall be vested in the Institute’s management
committee. 2.–(1) The Management Committee of the Institute shall comprise of
the following members-
(a) one member from the Crop Development Division of the
Ministry of Agriculture responsible for seed issues;
Management of
institute
Constitution of
Management
Committee

the Crop Development Division of the
Ministry of Agriculture responsible for seed issues;
Management of
institute
Constitution of
Management
Committee

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.569
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
(b) the Head of the National Post-entry Plant Quarantine
Station;
(c) one member from the Research and Development Division
of the Ministry of Agriculture, responsible for biotechnology
issues; and
(d) the Chief Seed Certification Officer who is the head of the
Tanzania Official Seed Certification Institute. (2) The Minister shall appoint the Chairman of the Management
Committee and one member from the Tanzania Seed Trade Association
to be a member of the Management Committee. 3. Members of the Management Committee shall hold office for a
period of three years and shall be eligible for re-appointment. 4.–(1) Three members of the Management Committee shall constitute
a quorum at any meeting and all decisions to be arrived at by the
Management Committee shall be decided by a simple majority of the
members present. (2) Each member of the Management Committee shall have one
vote and in the event of equality of votes, the Chairman of the meeting
shall have a second or casting vote in addition to his deliberative vote. 5.

e
vote and in the event of equality of votes, the Chairman of the meeting
shall have a second or casting vote in addition to his deliberative vote. 5.

Minutes in proper form of each meeting of the Management
Committee have to be properly kept and shall be confirmed by
the Management Committee at its next sitting and signed by the
Chairperson of the meeting. 6. The Management Committee shall have power to regulate its
procedures in respect of meetings and proper conduct of its business. 7.–(1) The Institute shall have the following duties to-
(a) conduct seed field inspections;
(b) effect sampling and testing;
(c) conduct seed inspections;
(d) accredit seed sampling and seed testing laboratories;
(e) charge fees or otherwise generate revenue from the services
rendered;
(f) ensure that the revenue accruing from the fees or any other
charge guarantees sustainable and quality services;
(g) train seed producers, seed inspectors and seed analysts;
(h) liaise with other International Organisations such as the
International Seed Testing Association on seed related issues;
(i) carry out variety performance tests; and
(j) carry out pre and post control tests.

International Seed Testing Association on seed related issues;
(i) carry out variety performance tests; and
(j) carry out pre and post control tests.

(2) The Institute shall not engage itself, directly or indirectly in
any trade or business connected with the production, processing,
importation, sale or distribution for sale of any seed. Term of
management
committee
members
Quorum
Minutes of
Management
Committee
Procedures
Functions of
Institute

le or distribution for sale of any seed. Term of
management
committee
members
Quorum
Minutes of
Management
Committee
Procedures
Functions of
Institute

©2025 Government of Tanzania. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or distributed without permission of OAG.570
THE SEEDS ACT [CAP. 308 R.E. 2023]
8. The Minister, in consultation with the Management Committee, shall
appoint the Chief Certification Officer. 9. The Management Committee may, appoint at such salaries and upon
such terms and conditions such officers and employees, for the proper
and efficient performance of the Institute’s functions and it may grant
pensions gratuities and allowances to any officer or employee and
appoint or employ agents and contractors as it may deem necessary. 10.–(1) There shall be a Common Seal of the Institute which shall
be of such shape, size and form as the Management Committee may
determine. (2) The Seal of the Institute shall not be affixed to any instrument
except in the presence of the Principal and one Management Committee
member. 11.

(2) The Seal of the Institute shall not be affixed to any instrument
except in the presence of the Principal and one Management Committee
member. 11.

The Institute shall keep and maintain proper books of accounts
and records relating to its transactions in accordance with acceptable
accounting standards-
(a) the financial year of the Institute shall end on 30th June of
each year;
(b) the books of accounts shall be audited at the end of each
financial year by an authorised auditor duly registered under
the Accountants and Auditors (Registration) Act, and the
auditors shall be appointed by the Management Committee;
(c) the accounts and reports of the auditors shall be submitted
to the Management Committee not later than four months
after the end of each financial year, and the Management
Committee shall submit a copy of the audit report to the
Institute within two months after they have been audited;
and
(d) the Institute shall submit a copy of the Institute’s Audit
Report to the Minister. Appointment of
institute’s Chief
Certification
Officer
Management
Committee
may appoint
employees of
Institute
Seal of Institute
Accounts and
audit
Cap. 286