On September 25, 2026, in Mednine, Minister of Trade and Export Development, Samir Obaid, stated that work is underway to issue new legal texts related to the Ben Guerdan free zone for commercial and logistical activities. These texts aim to provide more flexibility and push the project's progress. The minister made these remarks during a working session focused on monitoring the project's status and means to advance its completion.
The upcoming phase is considered crucial, and a detailed, time-bound action plan will be implemented in the short, medium, and long term to ensure its success. The minister emphasized the importance of evaluation and follow-up to overcome obstacles by coordinating efforts among stakeholders and defining roles. This project is seen as a strategic step to integrate border regions into the national economy and encourage youth investment in vital sectors.
Minister Obaid highlighted the significance of involving local residents in investing in the project, which is expected to create new job opportunities. The project is one of the main components of the land corridor project that will connect Tunisia to several African countries, enhancing Tunisia's position as a commercial platform linking Africa to Europe.
The Ben Guerdan free zone project is anticipated to achieve goals that will positively impact Tunisia and neighboring countries. The project aims to provide a boost to the regional economy and improve trade relations. By developing this free zone, Tunisia expects to strengthen its economic ties with Africa and Europe.
During his two-day visit to Mednine, Minister Obaid was accompanied by the regional governor, Walid Taboubi, and several stakeholders, including members of the Chamber of Deputies. The minister's visit aimed to assess the project's progress and discuss ways to address challenges. The project's success is considered vital for the region's economic development.
The free zone project in Ben Guerdan is part of a broader strategy to promote economic growth and development in Tunisia's border regions. By providing a favorable business environment, the project is expected to attract investments and create new opportunities for local populations. The project's implementation will be closely monitored to ensure its objectives are met.
The project's progress will be evaluated based on its impact on the regional economy, job creation, and trade relations. The government is committed to providing support and resources to ensure the project's success. With the drafting of new legal texts, the project is expected to move forward, and its positive effects will be felt in the region.
Key points
- The Ben Guerdan free zone project aims to integrate border regions into Tunisia's economy and promote youth investment in strategic sectors.
- The project is expected to create new job opportunities and enhance Tunisia's position as a commercial platform linking Africa to Europe.
- A detailed action plan will be implemented to ensure the project's success in the short, medium, and long term.
