The Banque Tunisienne de Solidarité (BTS) in Tunisia has announced the allocation of approximately $30 million (30 million dinars) to finance seasonal loans for small farmers in anticipation of the new agricultural campaign. According to a statement released by the bank, these loans can be granted directly to farmers by the bank or through microcredit associations. This move aims to support small farmers in obtaining the necessary financing to continue their activities.
The BTS has introduced new measures to accelerate the disbursement of seasonal loans and assist small cereal farmers. These measures include the automatic disbursement of credits to small farmers who have repaid their previous seasonal loans within 15 days of submitting their application. Additionally, the bank has set aside $5 million to be provided through the Sociétés Mutuelles de Services Agricoles (SMSA) operating in the sector.
Small cereal farmers who have rescheduled their debts will also be able to obtain seasonal loans to finance their activities, in accordance with Circular No. 6 of 2026 and Memorandum No. 161 of 2026 from the Central Bank of Tunisia, related to the rescheduling of debts of farmers affected by drought. This initiative aims to provide relief and support to farmers facing financial difficulties.
The BTS has allocated a budget of approximately $4 million to ensure the granting of loans under the Project d'Appui au Développement Inclusif et Durable de la Filière Céréalière en Tunisie (PADIDFIC) and the Programme d'appui d'urgence à la sécurité alimentaire en Tunisie (PAUSAT). These seasonal loans are offered at a fixed bank interest rate of 5%, without the obligation to present guarantees or initial contributions.
According to the bank, 70% of the loan value will be paid in the form of supply vouchers intended directly for the acquisition of inputs, while the remaining 30% will be paid directly into the farmer's account. This mechanism is designed to facilitate the access of small farmers to essential resources.
The BTS has also decided to increase the ceiling of financing granted through microcredit associations from $5,000 to $10,000 and to simplify the procedures for obtaining seasonal loans for cereal farmers. These measures are expected to improve access to finance for small farmers and enhance their productivity.
The allocation of $30 million for seasonal loans to small farmers demonstrates the Banque Tunisienne de Solidarité's commitment to supporting the agricultural sector in Tunisia. By providing accessible financing options, the bank aims to contribute to the country's food security and the sustainability of agricultural activities.
Key points
- The Banque Tunisienne de Solidarité allocates $30 million for seasonal loans to small farmers in Tunisia.
- The loans are offered at a fixed bank interest rate of 5%, without guarantees or initial contributions.
- The bank has introduced measures to accelerate loan disbursement and support small cereal farmers.
