The Tunisian automobile market has experienced substantial growth in 2026, with a total of 69,982 vehicles registered in the first eight months of the year. This represents a 13.78% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when 61,505 vehicles were registered. The growth is a notable trend in the market, which is undergoing significant changes in its structure and dynamics.
The market's growth is largely driven by the concessionaires' segment, which accounts for 47,002 vehicles, representing an 11.69% increase from the previous year. However, the parallel circuit, which includes re-registrations and vehicles benefiting from the FCR fiscal regime for Tunisian expatriates, is growing at a faster pace. In the first eight months of 2026, 22,980 vehicles were registered in the parallel circuit, a 18.31% increase from the same period in 2025.
The parallel circuit now accounts for 33% of the market, up from 32% in 2025. This shift in market dynamics is significant, as it indicates a change in consumer behavior and preferences. The FCR regime, which offers tax benefits to Tunisian expatriates, plays a crucial role in this trend. However, it is challenging to attribute the growth of the parallel circuit to a single factor, as multiple elements, including pricing, model availability, taxation, and financing conditions, contribute to this trend.
Another significant transformation in the Tunisian automobile market is the acceleration of electrification. Hybrid vehicles have seen substantial growth, with 4,116 registrations in the first eight months of 2026, up from 1,801 in the same period in 2025. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) have also experienced remarkable growth, with 2,678 registrations, compared to 398 in 2025. Fully electric vehicles have also gained traction, with 2,391 registrations, up from 277 in 2025.
The increasing adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles is a notable trend in the Tunisian market. These vehicles now account for nearly 14% of total registrations, up from less than 5% in 2025. The growth of hybrid and electric vehicles is driven by various factors, including government incentives, environmental concerns, and changing consumer preferences. The market is expected to continue evolving, with new models and technologies being introduced.
The popular car segment has seen relatively stable sales, with 6,276 units registered in the first eight months of 2026, compared to 6,611 units in the same period in 2025. This represents a decline of approximately 5.1%. However, this segment's performance does not dominate the market trends, as the overall growth is driven by other factors, including the increasing adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles.
The Tunisian automobile market is entering a new phase of diversification, driven by the growth of the parallel circuit, the increasing adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles, and the introduction of new models and brands. The market's evolution is expected to continue, with various factors, including government policies, consumer preferences, and technological advancements, shaping its future. Key statistics include 69,982 vehicles registered in the first eight months of 2026, a 13.78% increase from the previous year.
Key points
- The Tunisian automobile market has seen significant growth in 2026, with a 13.78% increase in vehicle registrations.
- The parallel circuit now accounts for 33% of the market, up from 32% in 2025.
- Hybrid and electric vehicles now account for nearly 14% of total registrations, up from less than 5% in 2025.