Tunisia's Minister of Health, Mustafa Al-Ferjani, has emphasized the importance of the health sector as a key driver of economic growth. On October 2, 2026, he highlighted that a well-developed healthcare system not only ensures the sustainability of human capital and improves productivity but also generates significant economic returns through the pharmaceutical industry and medical tourism.
According to Al-Ferjani, Tunisia has established itself as a major player in the pharmaceutical industry, exporting medicines to over 25 countries worldwide. Additionally, the country has a reputation for medical tourism, attracting patients seeking specialized medical care, particularly in the fields of surgery and treatment. This has contributed significantly to the country's economy.
Estimates suggest that Tunisia receives over 500,000 visitors annually for medical procedures and attracts more than 2 million tourists seeking medical care. This has made the health sector one of the key areas of economic growth, with the potential to create new job opportunities and contribute to the country's development.
The health sector is not the only area experiencing growth in Tunisia; the country is also investing in digital health. Al-Ferjani stated that digital health is an integral part of Tunisia's comprehensive policy to develop healthcare infrastructure, with strong political support. This move aims to improve healthcare services and create new opportunities for economic growth.
Recently, Tunisia hosted the International Conference on Digital Health, "Telehealth," from September 29 to October 1, 2026. The conference brought together experts from over 35 countries, including ministers and global health professionals. The event provided a platform for Tunisia to showcase its expertise in digital health and establish partnerships with other countries and organizations.
During the conference, several Tunisian institutions signed cooperation agreements with foreign partners. Al-Ferjani noted that Tunisia is one of only five countries worldwide to have entered the digital hospital sector, alongside the UK, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Jordan. This achievement reflects the country's significant progress in digital health.
The Tunisian government has also taken steps to improve its healthcare system by designating certain hospital departments as university hospital departments. This move aims to attract medical professionals, provide training and education, and enhance the quality of healthcare services. These efforts demonstrate the government's commitment to developing the health sector and creating new opportunities for economic growth.
Key points
- Tunisia's health sector contributes significantly to the country's economy through pharmaceuticals and medical tourism.
- The country has established itself as a major player in the pharmaceutical industry, exporting medicines to over 25 countries worldwide.
- Tunisia is investing in digital health, with strong political support, to improve healthcare services and create new opportunities for economic growth.
