The Tunisian trade deficit has increased to 23.547 billion dinars in the first ten months of 2026, from 18.456 billion dinars in the same period of 2025, according to the National Institute of Statistics. The country's exports rose by 7.8% to 56.3 billion dinars, while imports jumped by 13% to 79.8 billion dinars. This has resulted in a coverage rate of 70.5%, down from 73.9% in 2025.
The energy sector has contributed significantly to the widening trade deficit, with the energy balance deficit reaching 12.026 billion dinars, up from 9.181 billion dinars in 2025. The deficit in non-energy sectors is 11.521 billion dinars. The import bill for raw materials and semi-finished goods, capital goods, and consumer goods also increased, resulting in deficits of 5.475 billion dinars, 3.695 billion dinars, and 3.072 billion dinars, respectively.
However, the food sector recorded a surplus of 722.7 million dinars. Several export sectors have shown growth, including the agro-food industry, which rose by 19.6%, driven by olive oil exports that increased from 3.062 billion dinars to 4.197 billion dinars. The energy sector also saw a 28% increase, thanks to refined products, while the mechanical and electrical industries grew by 9.1%.
On the other hand, the mining, phosphate, and derivatives sector declined by 14.4%, and the textile, clothing, and leather sector decreased by 4.2%. The European Union remains Tunisia's main trading partner, accounting for 70.2% of exports, with sales increasing to France, Italy, and Germany, but decreasing to Ireland and Greece.
Among Arab countries, exports to Egypt and Saudi Arabia surged by 71.9% and 68.3%, respectively, while exports to Morocco and Algeria declined. Exports to Libya remained stable. In terms of imports, all product categories increased, including energy, food, raw materials, and semi-finished goods, capital goods, and consumer goods.
The European Union supplied 44.7% of Tunisia's imports, with increases from France and Italy, but decreases from Finland and Portugal. Outside the EU, imports rose from Turkey, India, and China, but fell from Russia and the UK. The widening trade deficit reflects the challenges facing Tunisia's economy.
The increase in imports, particularly in the energy sector, has put pressure on the country's foreign exchange reserves. The government will need to implement measures to boost exports and reduce imports to narrow the trade deficit and stabilize the economy. The situation will require careful monitoring and policy adjustments to mitigate the impact on the economy.
Key points
- The trade deficit has widened to 23.547 billion dinars in the first ten months of 2026.
- The energy sector has contributed significantly to the widening trade deficit.
- The government will need to implement measures to boost exports and reduce imports.
