Tunisia's healthcare sector is a significant economic contributor, with the potential to drive growth and create jobs. According to Health Minister Mustafa Al-Ferjani, the sector not only sustains human capital and boosts productivity but also generates returns through pharmaceutical industries and medical tourism. The country's pharmaceutical industry exports to over 25 countries worldwide.
The minister highlighted Tunisia's reputation in medical tourism, built on its pool of specialized medical professionals and surgeons, as well as its thermal water and sea water-based therapeutic tourism. Previous estimates indicate that Tunisia receives over 500,000 individuals for medical procedures and attracts over two million visitors annually, making healthcare a lucrative sector with substantial economic potential.
Minister Al-Ferjani emphasized that Tunisia's foray into digital health is part of a comprehensive strategy to upgrade healthcare infrastructure, backed by strong political will. The recent organization of the International Conference on Digital Health, "Telehealth," which drew participation from over 35 countries, experts, and ministers, opened avenues for collaboration with global organizations and companies in the digital health space.
The conference, held from September 29 to October 1, 2026, enabled several Tunisian institutions to sign cooperation agreements with various countries. Minister Al-Ferjani noted that Tunisia is among five countries worldwide that have entered the digital hospital domain, alongside Britain, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Jordan. This underscores the significance of Tunisia's experience in digital health transformation.
The Health Minister also discussed efforts to enhance the quality of healthcare services through the upgrade of hospital infrastructure and the implementation of digital solutions. He cited the example of designating certain hospital sections as university hospital departments, aiming to attract resident doctors and interns, and support education and training.
These developments are part of a broader strategy to modernize Tunisia's healthcare sector and make it more competitive globally. By investing in digital health and medical tourism, the country aims to boost its economic prospects and provide better healthcare services to its citizens.
The recognition of Tunisia's achievements in digital health by the international community is a testament to the country's progress in this field. As one of the pioneers in digital hospitals, Tunisia is poised to share its expertise and collaborate with other nations to advance global healthcare.
Key points
- Tunisia is one of five countries globally to have entered the digital hospital space.
- The country's healthcare sector is a significant economic contributor, driven by pharmaceutical industries and medical tourism.
- Tunisia's digital health strategy is backed by strong political will and aims to upgrade healthcare infrastructure.
