Tunisia's Finance Minister, Michket Slama Khaldi, has announced that the country's 2027 budget will include 32,557 new recruitments and regularisations in the public sector. This announcement was made during a presentation of the budget project to the finance and budget committees of the People's Representatives Assembly and the National Council of Regions and Districts. The move aims to support employment, particularly for university graduates.
The 2027 budget project prioritises the sustainability of public finances while stimulating economic and social growth. It focuses on better mobilisation of domestic resources, continuation of tax reform, digitalisation of the administration, and improved efficiency of public spending. The government also aims to support low-income categories and cover the needs for subsidies on fuel, basic products, and public transport.
The budget project provides for a significant increase in wage expenditures, which are expected to reach approximately 27,349 million dinars, representing 13.2% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This increase is largely due to the implementation of salary increases planned for 2026, 2027, and 2028, with the second tranche of these increases to be implemented.
The new recruitments in the public sector will primarily benefit university graduates, doctoral degree holders, and workers from construction sites whose situations are to be regularised. The government aims to stimulate employment and support the most vulnerable populations through these measures.
In addition to employment and social support, the 2027 budget project focuses on improving the investment climate, strengthening regional development, consolidating food and water security, accelerating the energy transition, and supporting digital transformation. These orientations are part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable and inclusive growth.
The budget project also aims to improve access to essential services and continue reforms in the health and social security sectors. The government seeks to strike a balance between fiscal sustainability and social and economic development, ensuring that public finances remain sustainable.
The implementation of these measures will require careful management of public debt, which is a key priority for the government. The authorities aim to ensure that debt remains sustainable, allowing for continued investment in the country's development while maintaining macroeconomic stability.
Key points
- The 2027 budget project includes 32,557 new public sector recruitments and regularisations.
- The budget project prioritises sustainability of public finances and stimulation of economic and social growth.
- Wage expenditures are expected to reach approximately 27,349 million dinars, representing 13.2% of GDP.
