Emergency services were called to the scene between Nelsons and Mount Barrow roads between Nunamara and Targa just after 6pm.

A Launceston-bound van collided with an oncoming truck, and the male driver of the van was pronounced dead at the scene, police say.

The male driver of the truck has been taken to the Launceston General Hospital for observation, but did not sustain serious injuries.

Crash investigators are on the scene and police are awaiting machinery to remove the truck.

Police say it appeared the van crossed onto the wrong side of the road, putting it in the path of the truck.

The Tasman Highway is expected to be closed for several more hours.

The public has been advised to avoid the area, and eastbound traffic should travel down Patersonia Road at Nunamara and turn onto Pecks Hill Road.

Westbound traffic can turn onto Pecks Hill Road and then left onto Patersonia Road.