The Tunisian car market has seen a total of 60,375 vehicles sold since the beginning of 2026 until the end of October, according to Mehdi Mahjoub, Director General of Alpha Hyundai Motor Tunisia. This represents a significant increase, driven by various factors including fiscal and legislative benefits, as well as an expanded offer of available vehicles. The market has also been influenced by the government's efforts to regulate the activity of charging electric vehicles.
The parallel market has emerged as a significant player in the Tunisian car market, accounting for around 33% of total vehicle sales. This translates to 29,182 vehicles sold through unofficial channels. Mehdi Mahjoub attributes the growth of the parallel market to the restrictive quota system imposed on authorized dealerships, which creates a shortage of supply and drives customers to seek alternative sources.
The sector organized around authorized dealerships has seen a 15.29% increase in sales, with 60,375 vehicles sold. This includes 44,944 private cars, representing a 16% increase, and 15,431 commercial vehicles, up 12.7%. However, the parallel market's expansion poses a challenge to authorized dealerships and the national economy, as it operates outside the regulatory framework and deprives the state of tax revenues.
Mehdi Mahjoub emphasizes that the parallel market's activities are detrimental to the national economy, as it avoids paying taxes and social security contributions, and fails to provide after-sales services. In contrast, authorized dealerships comply with all regulatory requirements, invest in infrastructure, create stable jobs, and pay value-added tax.
The price of cars in Tunisia is influenced by two main factors: the exchange rate of the Tunisian dinar against foreign currencies and maritime freight costs. The current geopolitical tensions have led to changes in commercial shipping routes, which in turn affect the pricing of vehicles. The instability of these factors contributes to the volatility of car prices in the Tunisian market.
The quota system imposed on authorized dealerships has been identified as a major factor contributing to the growth of the parallel market. Mehdi Mahjoub argues that increasing the import quota for vehicles would help alleviate the shortage of supply and reduce the appeal of the parallel market. However, this solution must be balanced against the need to protect the national economy and ensure that the market operates in a fair and transparent manner.
Hyundai Tunisia's participation in the 10th edition of the Mediterranean Human Resources Meetings reflects the company's commitment to human capital development and its recognition of the importance of responsible business practices. The event provides a platform for companies to share best practices and expertise in human resources management, and Hyundai's involvement underscores its dedication to fostering a culture of excellence and social responsibility.
Key points
- The parallel market accounts for 33% of total vehicle sales in Tunisia, with 29,182 vehicles sold through unofficial channels.
- The quota system imposed on authorized dealerships contributes to the growth of the parallel market.
- The Tunisian car market has seen a 15.29% increase in sales, driven by fiscal and legislative benefits and an expanded offer of available vehicles.
