The Tunisian government has announced plans to acquire four new ships starting from 2027, as part of efforts to modernize and expand its maritime transport fleet. According to Minister of Transport Rachid Amari, the rehabilitation of existing Tunisian ships dedicated to passenger and cargo transport has reached an 80% completion rate. This development aims to improve the country's maritime capabilities and better serve its citizens and economy.
The current fleet of the Compagnie tunisienne de navigation (CTN) consists of six active ships, including two car-ferries, the Tanit and the Carthage, which operate between the port of La Goulette and several European destinations, such as Marseille and Genoa. Additionally, there are four roll-on/roll-off ships, the Ulysse, Salammbo, Amilcar, and Elyssa, which are used for transporting trailers, containers, and various goods. These ships play a vital role in connecting Tunisia to international markets.
Minister Amari also mentioned that maintenance, rehabilitation, and extension works are ongoing in several ports, including those in Radès and Zarzis. These projects aim to upgrade the country's port infrastructure, enhance efficiency, and increase capacity to handle growing trade volumes. The investment in ports and ships is expected to have a positive impact on Tunisia's economy and trade.
The new ships to be acquired will be part of a five-year program, which will see the addition of three new vessels in 2027 and 2028. However, the minister did not provide specific details on the delivery schedule, type of ships, or their intended use. The acquisition of new ships is expected to further boost Tunisia's maritime transport capabilities and support economic growth.
The rehabilitation of existing ships and the acquisition of new ones are part of a broader strategy to modernize and develop Tunisia's maritime sector. The government aims to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the sector, which is crucial for the country's trade and economic development. The investment in the maritime sector is expected to create new opportunities for businesses and citizens alike.
The current rehabilitation work has not specified which ships are being upgraded, and the cost of the new acquisitions has not been disclosed. The Tunisian government is committed to investing in the maritime sector to enhance its capabilities and better serve the country's economic needs. The ongoing projects and planned acquisitions demonstrate the government's efforts to develop the sector and support economic growth.
The plans to acquire new ships and upgrade existing infrastructure demonstrate Tunisia's commitment to developing its maritime transport capabilities. The investment in the sector is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy, trade, and citizens. With a focus on modernization and expansion, Tunisia is poised to enhance its position as a key player in regional and international trade.
Key points
- Tunisia plans to acquire four new ships from 2027 to boost its maritime transport capabilities.
- The rehabilitation of existing Tunisian ships has reached an 80% completion rate.
- The ongoing investment in ports and ships is expected to support economic growth and enhance trade.
