Tunisia's exports to Africa are expected to reach $13 billion by 2030, according to Anis Jaziri, head of the Tunisian-African Business Council. This ambitious goal is achievable due to the dynamic economic growth and increasing demand in the African market. Jaziri emphasized that achieving this target requires enhanced cooperation between the government, private sector, and civil society.
The Tunisian-African Business Council has targeted 44 African markets over the past decade, out of 55 African countries, in West, Central, and East Africa. Over the next five years, the council plans to explore the remaining African markets, with three business missions per year to countries with promising opportunities, such as South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe.
Currently, Tunisia's exports to Africa stand at approximately $6.5 billion, accounting for 10% of the country's total trade. However, exports to sub-Saharan Africa are limited to $1.6 billion, representing only 3% of Tunisia's external trade. The council aims to increase its presence in African markets and double export values through a five-year program from 2025 to 2030.
To achieve this goal, the council plans to establish sectoral clusters in areas such as infrastructure, technology, communication, higher education, vocational training, tourism, health, and industry. These clusters will enable Tunisian companies to participate in large-scale projects and provide comprehensive solutions to African markets.
Jaziri noted that Tunisian companies face competition from international firms, particularly from China, Turkey, Europe, the US, Morocco, Egypt, and Algeria. He believes that grouping companies into clusters will allow them to offer integrated solutions, citing the success of the Tokad cluster, which was established in 2025 in the infrastructure sector.
The council also plans to establish an African business bank, Veranga Investment Partners, by 2029 to support Tunisian companies operating in Africa. The bank will be managed in partnership with African banks, investment funds, and investors. Jaziri invited Tunisian banks and investment funds to participate in the project and support the expansion of Tunisian companies in Africa.
Jaziri identified logistical and legislative challenges that hinder trade with Africa, including the lack of direct shipping lines and limited air connectivity. He called for updating the exchange regulations and developing transportation and logistics solutions, such as opening new air routes to sub-Saharan Africa and establishing direct shipping lines to African ports.
Key points
- Tunisia aims to double its exports to Africa to $13 billion by 2030
- The Tunisian-African Business Council plans to establish sectoral clusters to enhance the presence of Tunisian companies in African markets
- An African business bank will be established by 2029 to support Tunisian companies operating in Africa
