Tunis dreams of a leap forward in trade with Africa, banking on the AfCFTA and a logistics corridor via Libya to
tap potential estimated at over €480 million.
But structural obstacles risk hampering this ambition.
The North African country currently exploits only a quarter of its export capacity to the continent.
According to estimates, nearly $518 million – or approximately €482 million – of trade opportunities remain untapped. The agri-food, textiles and leather, electromechanical, and automotive sectors constitute the main sources of growth.
To make up for this delay, Tunis is banking on a logistics corridor with Libya to streamline access to sub-Saharan markets.
The stated objective is to transform the country into a Mediterranean hub for African value chains. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a favourable framework: by 2030, it is expected to create a common market worth $2.5 trillion and benefit 2 billion consumers, with a gradual 90 percent reduction in intra-African customs duties.
However, significant obstacles remain. Tunisian logistics costs are 50 percent higher than the global average, regulations vary greatly from one country to another, and access to financing remains limited.
Rising global protectionism is also weighing on competitiveness.
The country’s strengths – geographical proximity, industrial know-how, and access to European and African markets – are undeniable. But without targeted investments in infrastructure, logistics, and exporter financing, the ambition to quadruple sales to Africa could remain wishful thinking.
Clearly, the potential exists. The question remains: will Tunis be able to convert this opportunity?
MK/ac/Sf/fss/as/APA