Tunisian banks have launched a new initiative called 'honor loans' aimed at supporting small businesses and individuals. The loans are being offered by banks that have achieved profits, with a total funding line of 8% of their profits. This funding will be allocated equally between consumption loans for individuals and loans for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The 'honor loans' are being offered through separate online platforms set up by each bank. These platforms will remain open until the funding line is exhausted. According to financial expert and banking law professor Mohamed Nakhili, the loans are designed to support small businesses and individuals without requiring any collateral or guarantees.
To be eligible for an 'honor loan', applicants must have a bank account that has been active for at least three months. Individuals who are currently repaying previous loans may also be eligible, provided they have the capacity to repay the new loan. The loans will be repaid over a maximum period of two years, with a possible six-month grace period.
The maximum loan amount is 25,000 dinars for small and medium-sized enterprises, 10,000 dinars for small project owners, and 5,000 dinars for individuals to finance their consumption needs. Mohamed Nakhili emphasized that it is not possible to benefit from an 'honor loan' from more than one bank at the same time.
Retirees are also eligible to apply for 'honor loans', although the conditions may vary from bank to bank. The loans are being offered at favorable terms, with no surcharges or fees. According to Nakhili, the initiative is governed by decree number 148 of 2026, which was published in the Official Gazette of the Tunisian Republic.
The 'honor loans' initiative aims to support small businesses and individuals who may not have access to traditional forms of credit. By providing loans without collateral or guarantees, the banks are taking on more risk, but also demonstrating their commitment to supporting the local economy.
The launch of 'honor loans' is a positive development for small businesses and individuals in Tunisia, who may struggle to access credit through traditional channels. With a total funding line of 8% of the banks' profits, the initiative has the potential to make a significant impact on the local economy.
Key points
- The 'honor loans' initiative is a new program launched by Tunisian banks to support small businesses and individuals.
- The loans are being offered through separate online platforms set up by each bank.
- The maximum loan amount is 25,000 dinars for small and medium-sized enterprises, 10,000 dinars for small project owners, and 5,000 dinars for individuals.
