The Ben Guerdane free zone project in Tunisia is entering a new phase, with several legal texts being prepared to facilitate its operation. The project, spanning 150 hectares, aims to become a commercial and logistics hub, particularly with its proximity to Libya and the African market. According to Minister of Trade and Export Development Samir Abid, the project is progressing with external infrastructure nearing completion and internal development set to begin.
The new legal texts are designed to provide more operational flexibility and address potential obstacles that could delay the project's implementation. A detailed action plan with a specific timeline is being developed to ensure the project is completed on schedule. The goal is to transform the zone from an infrastructure project into a functional commercial and logistics tool.
The Ben Guerdane free zone, located in Alouet El Gonna, Choucha, will focus on trans-border trade and logistics. Approximately 70% of the zone's activity will be dedicated to logistics operations under customs, including export, re-export, import, and transit. Commercial spaces under customs will occupy 20%, while administrative services and activities will account for the remaining 10%.
The zone is expected to serve as a commercial platform between Tunisia, Libya, and broader African and European markets. It is also integrated into a planned land corridor connecting Tunisia to several African countries. The project's strategic location makes it an attractive hub for trade and logistics.
Local authorities are emphasizing the zone's role as a gateway to Libya and African markets. The governor of Médenine, Walid Taboubi, suggested establishing an operations room with a unified dashboard, a follow-up calendar, and clear responsibility allocation. This would enhance coordination and efficiency within the zone.
According to Jamal Eddine El Fahem, president of the project's management unit, the project is progressing satisfactorily. The current phase involves completing external infrastructure and initiating internal development. This follows several years of preparation, including the establishment of a company to manage and operate the zone in December 2024.
The project has a business plan and functional and technical program in place for its first phase, which will guide its implementation. With regulatory and operational steps underway, the project is moving closer to its launch. The next steps include finalizing the legal framework, completing external infrastructure, and commencing internal development.
Key points
- The Ben Guerdane free zone project covers 150 hectares and aims to become a major commercial and logistics hub in the region.
- The project involves developing new legal texts to facilitate its operation and address potential obstacles.
- The zone is expected to play a significant role in connecting Tunisia, Libya, and broader African and European markets.
