The Tunisian-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCITF) recently hosted a conference in Tunis to discuss Tunisia's infrastructure development and its prospects for the future. The conference, titled "INTERMAT Paris 2027: Building Tomorrow's Infrastructure - Challenges and Opportunities for Tunisia and Africa," brought together representatives from public institutions, companies, and experts in construction and public works. The event was attended by notable figures, including Khelil Chaïbi, President of CCITF, Guillaume Schaeffer, Director of INTERMAT, and Laura Sanchez, Marketing and Communications Director of INTERMAT.
The conference aimed to highlight the challenges and opportunities in Tunisia's infrastructure sector, with a focus on the country's development plans up to 2035. Ali Arous, a member of the Executive Bureau of the National Federation of Building and Public Works Entrepreneurs (FNEBTP), presented an overview of the sector's challenges in Tunisia and Africa. Meanwhile, Dhirar Chahba, Director of Programming and Project Monitoring at the General Directorate of Bridges and Roads, outlined the Ministry's strategic plans, which include expanding the highway network to 1,320 km and the expressway network to 2,000 km, while modernizing existing infrastructure.
The conference also explored ways to make infrastructure more resilient to climate change. Mohamed Guesmi, Director General of the Center for Testing and Construction Techniques (CETEC), and Ibtissem Bouattay, Senior Climate Change Consultant and President of TGBC, discussed solutions to enhance the resilience of road networks. The RE-MED project, which focuses on valorizing construction and demolition waste in roadworks, was presented as a concrete example of circular economy and innovation in infrastructure.
The INTERMAT Paris 2027 event, scheduled to take place from April 21 to 24, 2027, in Paris-Nord Villepinte, will bring together international construction players to showcase equipment, technological innovation, decarbonization, digitalization, and B2B meetings. The African Summit, planned for April 22, will focus on African infrastructure projects, equipment needs, investment opportunities, and industrial and technological cooperation between decision-makers, companies, and institutions.
The CCITF's efforts to promote Tunisia's infrastructure development are part of a broader strategy to enhance economic cooperation between Tunisia and France. The Chamber has been actively involved in organizing events and initiatives to support the growth of Tunisia's construction sector. By participating in INTERMAT Paris 2027, Tunisian companies will have the opportunity to engage with international players and explore new business opportunities.
The conference also highlighted the importance of sustainability and environmental considerations in infrastructure development. The RE-MED project, which aims to reduce waste and promote recycling in construction, was seen as a model for sustainable infrastructure development. The project's focus on valorizing construction and demolition waste in roadworks aligns with Tunisia's efforts to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
As Tunisia looks to develop its infrastructure in the coming years, the country is expected to face significant challenges, including financing and climate change. However, with the support of international partners and the involvement of local companies, Tunisia is well-positioned to address these challenges and achieve its development goals. The INTERMAT Paris 2027 event will provide a platform for Tunisian companies to engage with international players and explore new opportunities for growth and cooperation.
Key points
- Tunisia aims to expand its highway network to 1,320 km and expressway network to 2,000 km by 2035.
- The INTERMAT Paris 2027 event will take place from April 21 to 24, 2027, in Paris-Nord Villepinte.
- The African Summit at INTERMAT Paris 2027 will focus on African infrastructure projects and investment opportunities.
