Tunisian Agricultural Expert Mohamed Taïeb Belhaj Passes Away

The Tunisian agricultural sector is mourning the loss of one of its most respected experts, Mohamed Taïeb Belhaj, who passed away on November 6, 2026. Belhaj had a long and distinguished career in public service, leading several major organizations and earning recognition beyond Tunisia's borders. The Ordre des Ingénieurs Tunisiens expressed its deep sadness at the news of his passing.

Belhaj's career was marked by significant contributions to the country's agricultural sector. He served as president-director general of the Société nationale des viandes (Ellouhoum) from 1994 to 1998 and then led the Office national des céréales from 1998 to 2004, achieving notable successes during his tenure. As the head of the Office des céréales, he played a crucial role in ensuring the country's food security by collecting, storing, and importing cereals.

Belhaj was recognized as an international expert in agricultural product development, distribution circuit upgrading, and agro-food valorization platform development. He undertook numerous missions in this capacity, further solidifying his reputation as a leading authority in his field. His expertise extended beyond Tunisia, earning him respect and recognition globally.

Belhaj's academic background was equally impressive. He graduated as an agronomist engineer from the Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie (INAT) in 1970. He then obtained a postgraduate diploma in animal production sciences from the Institut national agronomique de Paris in 1971, followed by a specialization diploma in development and organization of animal production systems from INAT in 1973.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Belhaj was also committed to various associations and organizations. He served as honorary president of the Institut international de recherches en langue des signes and was one of the founders of the École nationale de l'audioprothèse. He also held the position of honorary president of the Association pour le développement et l'animation rurale.

Belhaj was among the first founders of the Union nationale des ingénieurs and the Ordre des Ingénieurs Tunisiens (OIT). His legacy in Tunisia's agricultural and engineering sectors will be remembered for years to come. The Ordre des Ingénieurs Tunisiens and L'Économiste maghrébin offer their sincere condolences to Belhaj's family.

The news of Belhaj's passing has sent shockwaves through Tunisia's agricultural community, with many paying tribute to his tireless work and dedication to the sector. His contributions to the country's food security and agricultural development will be deeply missed.

Key points

• Mohamed Taïeb Belhaj, a renowned Tunisian agricultural expert, passed away on November 6, 2026.
• Belhaj led the Office national des céréales from 1998 to 2004, achieving significant successes in food security.
• He was recognized as an international expert in agricultural product development and distribution circuit upgrading.