The Tunisian government is working with the African Economic Commission (CEA) to set up a fund that will mobilize savings from its diaspora community. The diaspora community's transfers to Tunisia reached 6.89 billion dinars, approximately $2.35 billion, in the first nine months of 2026. This represents a 5% annual increase. The CEA estimates that these transfers accounted for around 6.5% of Tunisia's GDP in 2025.
However, these resources do not automatically translate into available capital for investment. The goal is to channel some of this savings into productive investments, particularly in regions, without compromising the needs of beneficiary families. The CEA is assisting the Ministry of Economy and Planning in developing an adapted institutional, legal, and financial framework. This includes a proposed fund for Tunisians abroad, which could finance high-value-added investments.
The success of this project depends on several conditions, including transparent governance, rigorous project selection, risk information, exit modalities, and investor protection. At this stage, no returns, guarantee mechanisms, or definitive project portfolio have been announced. The CEA's assistance aims to ensure that the fund is set up with a robust framework that will attract and protect investors.
Another initiative being explored is the potential issuance of green bonds by Tunisia in 2028. These debt securities would raise financing for projects meeting specific environmental criteria. The credibility of such an initiative would rely on precise identification of eligible investments and transparent monitoring of fund usage. The CEA is providing technical assistance for this preparation within the framework of the 2026-2030 Development Plan.
To convince the diaspora community to invest, the focus will be on demonstrating the safety, economic utility, and ability to finance concrete projects. The challenge is to create instruments that not only attract investors but also contribute to Tunisia's economic growth. This involves striking a balance between financial returns and social and environmental benefits.
The Tunisian government and the CEA are working to address these challenges and create an enabling environment for diaspora investments. This includes developing a clear and transparent framework for project selection, risk management, and investor protection. By doing so, they aim to unlock the potential of diaspora savings to drive economic growth and development in Tunisia.
As Tunisia continues to explore ways to mobilize diaspora savings, the focus remains on creating a robust and transparent investment framework. With the right approach, the country can tap into the potential of its diaspora community to finance productive investments and drive economic growth. The success of this initiative will depend on the government's ability to strike a balance between financial returns and social and environmental benefits.
Key points
- Tunisia's diaspora community transferred $2.35 billion in the first nine months of 2026.
- The government is working with the CEA to set up a fund to mobilize diaspora savings for productive investments.
- A potential green bond issuance is being explored for 2028 to finance environmentally friendly projects.
