Brussels has approved a five-year exemption allowing basic local processing to qualify as an origin criterion, granting Tunisian manufacturers tariff advantages on the European market.
In late July 2025, the European Commission adopted Regulation (EU) 2025/1459, introducing derogations to the rules of origin set out in the EU–Tunisia Association Agreement.
Applicable retroactively from January 22, 2025, and valid for five years, the measure allows certain textile products made in Tunisia to be deemed “originating” even if their raw materials are imported.
The flexibility is aimed at boosting the competitiveness of Tunisia’s textile sector, a pillar of the national economy by facilitating duty-free preferential access to the EU market.
Annual quotas cover several product categories: over 3.2 million pairs of men’s denim trousers per year during the first three years, then 2.9 million in the final two; and around 1.5 million pairs for women’s trousers.
Allocation will follow a “first come, first served” basis, with automatic adjustments in cases of overuse or underutilisation of the quotas.
The Tunisian Textile and Clothing Federation welcomed the decision, saying it would ease raw material sourcing and strengthen the local value chain. The EU sees it as a lever for growth and job creation in a strategic sector, while supporting Tunisia’s broader economic diversification.
Despite the eased requirements, manufacturers still face intense global competition and the need to invest in quality, innovation, and environmental and social compliance to fully benefit from the scheme.
MK/sf/ac/lb/gik/APA