The Tunisian hydrocarbon transport strike, scheduled for September 23-24, will proceed as planned, according to Selouane Semiri, deputy secretary general of the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT). Semiri stated that the unions are awaiting an official summons from the Ministry of Social Affairs to initiate conciliation talks with the involved parties. The goal of these talks is to reach an agreement and prevent the strike.
The strike notice was issued about a month ago, providing sufficient time for negotiations. Semiri mentioned that the Ministries of Industry, Mines, Energy, and Finance have made efforts to address the issue, including granting an increase to hydrocarbon distribution companies to help cover workers' social charges. However, the main problem lies in the social contributions due to the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) and a bonus agreed upon on May 2, 2019, which has not been paid.
According to Semiri, the Ministry of Social Affairs is required by Article 378 of the Labor Code to convene a conciliation session and have an agreement protocol signed. He suggested that concessions from all parties could lead to a definitive solution. Semiri emphasized that the unions are willing to engage in dialogue to find a consensual formula, believing a solution is possible with the participation of worker, company, and government representatives.
Semiri clarified that the state-granted increase to distribution companies is not directly paid to workers but aims to provide companies with necessary resources to cover their social charges. However, workers have not benefited from their social coverage during the concerned period, which is deemed unacceptable. The distribution companies justified non-payment of contributions by citing financial difficulties and lack of liquidity.
The increase in profit margin granted to companies in September 2026 was intended to help them generate necessary resources to settle these charges. Semiri noted that the profit margin of distribution companies was raised by about 6% but expressed disappointment that this measure was not followed by a regularization of workers' social situations.
Semiri highlighted that the unions and workers have shown responsibility in managing the situation, with some unionists and workers currently in the south helping to ensure fuel supply. He stressed the importance of dialogue and finding a solution that satisfies all parties. The strike is set to take place on September 23-24, unless an agreement is reached beforehand.
Key issues at the heart of the strike include unpaid social contributions and bonuses. The unions seek a resolution that addresses these concerns. The outcome of the planned conciliation talks and the strike's impact on the country's fuel supply remain to be seen. The situation is being closely watched by various stakeholders.
Key points
- The strike in the hydrocarbon transport sector is scheduled for September 23-24.
- Unpaid social contributions and bonuses are key issues driving the strike.
- Conciliation talks between the involved parties are expected to take place.
