On September 28, 2026, Salah Zouari, Tunisia's Minister of Equipment and Housing, who is also in charge of the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy, participated in the fifth edition of the Egypt Mining Forum in Cairo. During the event, Zouari highlighted Tunisia's ongoing commitment to achieving regional integration and developing local and shared value chains. This approach aims to support high-value-added industries, reduce reliance on imported inputs, and create new export opportunities.
Zouari's participation in the forum included a panel discussion titled "Linking Mineral Development to Industrial Growth." There, he emphasized the importance of regional integration and value chain development in supporting high-value-added industries and reducing dependence on imported inputs. According to a statement released by the Ministry, Zouari also underscored the significance of Tunisia's mining sector as a fundamental pillar of the national economy. The country boasts diverse mineral wealth, including lead, zinc, iron, salts, and potash.
The Minister praised long-standing trade relations with friendly countries, particularly in supplying raw materials necessary for manufacturing fertilizers, such as sulfur and ammonia. He called for further strengthening and developing these relationships to serve mutual interests. Zouari also mentioned Tunisia's efforts, in coordination with various stakeholders, to regain its global standing in the phosphate sector and its derivatives. This involves advancing mining research and exploitation, encouraging private Tunisian and foreign investors, and providing digital geological data.
Furthermore, Zouari highlighted the importance of promoting exploration and mining activities, as well as enhancing cooperation between the public and private sectors. He also stressed the need for exchanging expertise among African and Arab countries, especially in areas like mineral processing, technology localization, and modern mining techniques. This cooperation is expected to contribute to achieving comprehensive economic development that meets the aspirations of regional populations.
The panel discussion included several prominent participants, such as Egyptian Minister of Industry Khaled Hashem, Nigerian Minister of Solid Minerals Development Oladile Henry Alak, and representatives from major companies like "Swedie Electric" and "Indorama." The Egypt Mining Forum, which took place over two days, was attended by 500 high-level officials, ministers, decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and representatives from over 50 countries. More than 100 institutions showcased the latest technologies and solutions in the mining sector.
The forum provided a platform for participants to explore opportunities in the Egyptian and Nubian Shield regions. With over 6,000 visitors from the public and private sectors, the event facilitated dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. Zouari's participation in the forum demonstrates Tunisia's commitment to engaging with regional and international partners to drive growth and development in the mining sector.
In conclusion, Tunisia's participation in the Egypt Mining Forum underscores the country's dedication to regional cooperation and mining sector development. By emphasizing the importance of value chain development and regional integration, Zouari highlighted Tunisia's potential for growth and its commitment to fostering partnerships that can drive economic development.
Key points
- Salah Zouari emphasizes Tunisia's commitment to regional integration and value chain development in the mining sector at the Egypt Mining Forum.
- The mining sector is a fundamental pillar of Tunisia's economy, with diverse mineral wealth including lead, zinc, iron, salts, and potash.
- Tunisia aims to regain its global standing in the phosphate sector and its derivatives through advanced research, exploitation, and investment.
