The paper aimed at analyzing the existing legal framework regulating protection of geographical indication in Tanzania. Analysis was conducted in line with the best practice and international standards regarding protection of geographical indication. Based on the aforementioned objective, the study employed doctrinal and comparative legal research. The study therefore, finds out that, the current Tanzanian legal framework for GIs protection is largely ineffective as a stand-alone system, offering only incidental and partial protection. While certain laws provide auxiliary safeguards, they fall short of delivering the collective rights, automatic recognition, and proactive enforcement that GIs require. The absence of sui generis GIs legislation leaves producers without strong collective ownership rights. Therefore, the study recommends for enactment of sui generis law to address the highlighted gaps. Such reform would not only ensure full compliance with international obligations but also unlock the economic, cultural and developmental benefits of GIs for Tanzania.
Key words: Sui generis; Geographical Indication; Legal Protection; Tanzania.