The National Institute of Statistics in Tunisia reported that the country's unemployment rate was 15% during the third quarter of 2026. This information was released as part of the employment and unemployment indicators for the third quarter of 2026. The rate showed a decline in unemployment among holders of higher diplomas to 24.6% in the third quarter, down from 26.6% in the second quarter.
The unemployment rate varied significantly between genders, with 11.8% of men and 22.1% of women unemployed. This disparity was consistent with the previous quarter's figures. The urban and rural areas also showed slight differences in unemployment rates, with 14.9% and 15.4% respectively. These rates were almost identical to those of the second quarter, which were 14.8% and 15%.
Young people aged 15-24 experienced a higher unemployment rate, which rose to 37.2% in the third quarter from 35.4% in the previous quarter. This age group had a significant disparity in unemployment rates between males and females, with 34.9% and 42% respectively. The overall unemployment rate for this age group was a concern, given its increase from the previous quarter.
Despite the challenges, the number of active individuals in Tunisia increased by 10.8 thousand people to reach 4201.3 thousand in the third quarter, up from 4190.5 thousand in the second quarter. The active population consisted of 2859.8 thousand males and 1341.5 thousand females, representing 68.1% and 31.9% respectively. However, the activity rate decreased slightly to 44.6% from 44.7% in the previous quarter.
The number of employed individuals in Tunisia rose by 1.3 thousand people to 3569.4 thousand in the third quarter, up from 3568.1 thousand in the second quarter. The employed population was comprised of 2523.9 thousand males and 1045.5 thousand females, making up 70.7% and 29.3% of the total respectively. The services sector employed the largest share of individuals, accounting for 53.9% of employment.
The sectoral distribution of employment showed that the services sector was the largest employer, followed by the manufacturing industry at 19.5%, and non-manufacturing industries at 13.5%. The agriculture and fishing sector accounted for 13.1% of employment. These figures indicated a diverse economy with various sectors contributing to employment.
The latest unemployment figures and employment trends in Tunisia provided insights into the country's labor market. With a slight decrease in the activity rate and an increase in the number of employed individuals, the country's employment landscape showed signs of stability. However, challenges persisted, particularly among young people and holders of higher diplomas.
Key points
- Tunisia's unemployment rate stood at 15% in the third quarter of 2026.
- Young people aged 15-24 experienced a higher unemployment rate of 37.2%.
- The services sector employed the largest share of individuals, accounting for 53.9% of employment.
