Tunisia is embarking on a new phase of industrial transformation, focusing on digitalization and artificial intelligence. Minister of Industry, Salah Zouari, stated that the country is working to develop its industrial enterprises and enhance their competitiveness. This transformation aims to structure these enterprises and make them more competitive in both local and international markets. The Ministry of Industry is collaborating with the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) to develop an integrated strategy for the digital transformation of Tunisia's industry.
The industrial transformation program, launched in 2018, has already shown positive results with the development of the E-CAP 1.0 system and the "Tunisian Industrial Management Assessment" platform. These tools assess and support enterprises to help them meet international standards, improve their competitiveness, and access new markets. The Industrial Promotion and Innovation Agency plays a central role in providing the necessary mechanisms for enterprise upgrading, with around 400 enterprises benefiting from this support and nearly 2,900 executives trained in intelligent industry practices.
The program also focuses on environmental requirements, with the evaluation process taking into account production methods and environmental concerns. Tunisian industrialists can thus meet global standards, particularly environmental ones, which are crucial for accessing international markets and tenders. The environment is an integral part of the system, and the authorities are working to ensure that industrial activities are environmentally sustainable.
Following the widespread electricity outages and high pressure on the grid during the summer of 2026, Minister Zouari assured that the government has assessed the situation and taken measures to prevent a recurrence. The implementation of these measures is ongoing, and their effects are expected to be felt by the summer of 2027, reducing deficits and disruptions. Energy is a priority for the Ministry, given its direct link to the continuity of industrial activity.
The Minister attributed the 2026 outages to a sharp increase in electricity demand coinciding with an exceptional global context. However, he indicated that interventions will be announced soon to address this issue. The government aims to accelerate the completion and commissioning of electricity production projects and transition energy projects, particularly those launched but not yet completed.
The authorities are exploring ways to expedite the exploitation of these projects to strengthen the electrical system's capacity to meet growing demand. These measures are part of the solutions being considered, with details to be announced soon. In parallel to addressing energy challenges, Tunisia is focusing on digital transformation, intelligent industry, and environmental standards, which are essential for enhancing the competitiveness of industrial enterprises.
The government's efforts to prevent future electricity outages and promote industrial transformation are crucial for maintaining economic stability and growth. With the implementation of these measures, Tunisia aims to improve its industrial sector's resilience and competitiveness, both domestically and internationally. The country's progress in this area will be closely watched by investors, businesses, and international organizations.
Key points
- Salah Zouari announces measures to prevent a repeat of the 2026 electricity outages.
- Tunisia focuses on digitalization and artificial intelligence to develop its industrial enterprises.
- The government works to accelerate electricity production and transition energy projects.
