As of October 1, 2026, Tunisian banks have started accepting applications for zero-interest loans, known as "crédits sur l'honneur," through dedicated online platforms. This new financing mechanism is designed to facilitate access to banking for individuals, small project holders, small and medium-sized enterprises, and community societies. The loans are granted without interest and without real guarantees, in accordance with the regulatory conditions.
The loan amounts vary depending on the beneficiaries, with a maximum of 5,000 dinars for individuals, 10,000 dinars for small projects, and 25,000 dinars for small and medium-sized enterprises and community societies. The repayment period can extend up to two years, with a grace period of up to six months. Applications are submitted exclusively online through the platform established by each bank.
According to Mohamed Nakhli, an expert in banking law, this mechanism could contribute to strengthening financial inclusion for part of the population, particularly those who primarily use cash payments. However, he notes that having a bank account is necessary to benefit from these loans, which could encourage the opening of new accounts.
Not all experts share the same level of optimism. Sofiane Ouerimi, an accounting expert and banking sector specialist, believes that the device will not be enough, on its own, to significantly increase the financial inclusion rate. He cites the solvency criteria applied by banks and the limited number of loans that can be granted.
Ouerimi estimates that 8% of the banking benefits realized in 2025, approximately 120 million dinars, are concerned by this financing line. He thinks that half of this envelope, around 60 million dinars, would be allocated to individuals and community societies. According to his estimates, the number of beneficiaries may not exceed 12,000 clients.
The new mechanism is part of a legislative process initiated in August 2024 with Law No. 41 of 2024 on interest-free financing. It was then complemented by the regulatory text of July 23, 2026, and the circular of the Central Bank of Tunisia No. 8-2026 of September 1, 2026, which sets out the terms and conditions for granting and implementing these financings.
Banks are required to respond to applications within a maximum of ten working days, with justification in case of refusal. The treatment of applications is based on the principle of the order of arrival of the requests. Experts hope that this new mechanism will help to increase financial inclusion and support small projects and enterprises in Tunisia.
Key points
- The new zero-interest loan mechanism aims to increase financial inclusion and support small projects and enterprises in Tunisia.
- The loans are granted without interest and without real guarantees, with varying amounts depending on the beneficiaries.
- Experts have mixed opinions on the potential impact of the mechanism on financial inclusion in Tunisia.
