The Ministry of Trade and Export Development in Tunisia has launched a new initiative to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in exporting their products abroad. The 'Easy Export' project was presented in the city of Gabès, where officials outlined the new facilitation measures for artisans and SMEs to market their products in foreign markets through postal services. This project aims to simplify the export process and provide more opportunities for SMEs to expand their customer base.
According to Khabib Khazri, Director of E-commerce and Digital Economy Development at the Ministry, the state will cover 50% of the cost of shipping parcels abroad through the Export Promotion Fund. The exporter will pay the remaining 50% directly, without needing to wait for reimbursement. This measure is designed to reduce the financial burden on SMEs and make exporting more accessible.
To further streamline the process, 11 unified postal service counters have been set up to handle shipping procedures. Khazri explained that an electronic customs system has been adopted, allowing businesses to submit a consolidated declaration every 15 days for the previous month's exports, rather than submitting a separate declaration for each parcel. This change aims to reduce bureaucracy and make it easier for SMEs to comply with export regulations.
The regional meeting in Gabès marked the fourth stop for the 'Easy Export' project, following events in Tunis, Sousse, and Sfax. Representatives from the General Directorate of Customs, the National Office for Traditional Industries, the Export Promotion Centre, and the Tunisian Post attended the meeting. The importance of digital marketing was emphasized as a means for entrepreneurs to reach new customers and expand their market presence.
The 'Easy Export' project is part of the government's efforts to support the growth of SMEs and increase their exports. By providing more accessible and affordable export services, the Ministry aims to boost Tunisia's export sector and promote economic development. The project is expected to benefit SMEs across the country, enabling them to tap into new markets and increase their competitiveness.
The Tunisian government has been working to improve the business environment and promote entrepreneurship, particularly among SMEs. The 'Easy Export' project is one of several initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses and encouraging them to export their products. By simplifying the export process and providing financial support, the government hopes to increase the number of SMEs involved in international trade.
The success of the 'Easy Export' project will depend on its implementation and the level of uptake among SMEs. If successful, the project could have a positive impact on Tunisia's economy, contributing to growth and job creation. The Ministry of Trade and Export Development will likely continue to monitor the project's progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure its effectiveness.
Key points
- The Tunisian state will cover 50% of the cost of shipping parcels abroad through the Export Promotion Fund.
- The 'Easy Export' project aims to simplify the export process for small and medium-sized enterprises.
- Eleven unified postal service counters have been set up to handle shipping procedures under the 'Easy Export' project.
