The Tunisian Parliament recently discussed the 2027 budget for the Ministry of Tourism and Traditional Industries. The focus was on diversifying the tourism product, valorizing cultural, historical, and environmental assets, and improving service quality at tourist facilities. Members of the Chamber of Deputies and the National Council of Regions and Districts emphasized the need to accelerate stalled projects and develop financing mechanisms for tourism investments.
Parliamentarians called for a review of current tourism sector strategies, shifting from a focus on beach, hotel, and seasonal tourism to cultural, ecological, mountain, rural, and wellness tourism. They highlighted the potential of Tunisia's internal regions, rich in natural, historical, and cultural assets, to attract tourists and stimulate economic growth. This approach aims to create jobs and promote sustainable development.
The discussion also touched on the importance of incorporating archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and natural areas into organized tourist circuits. This would involve preparing and promoting these sites, providing information and guidance, and advertising them to travel agencies and international markets. Specific proposals included creating a tourist circuit in the governorate of Manouba, linking the Bardo Museum to other local historical sites.
Lawmakers suggested valorizing the tourism potential of various regions, including Nabeul, Bajah, Bizerte, Siliana, Mahdia, and Sidi Bouzid. They proposed developing tourist infrastructure, services, and circuits in these areas, and classifying municipalities with tourism potential to access investment and promotion programs. This would enable them to benefit from support programs and enhance their tourism offerings.
The parliamentarians emphasized the need to improve service quality at tourist facilities, revising classification criteria for hotels and restaurants, and strengthening monitoring to ensure compliance with standards and prices. They also highlighted the importance of developing eco-tourism, creating national classifications for eco-friendly municipalities, and promoting environmental and green economy initiatives.
To enhance the tourism product, lawmakers suggested diversifying activities and services offered to visitors, such as introducing cable car lines in areas with unique natural or mountainous features. They also proposed developing agri-tourism, linking it to local festivals, products, and harvest seasons, and valorizing islands, coastal areas, and natural landscapes.
Finally, the parliamentarians addressed issues related to investment, financing, and employment in the tourism sector. They called for facilitating access to financing for small and medium-sized tourism projects, simplifying licensing procedures, and supporting tourism businesses in internal regions.
Key points
- Diversifying the tourism product to include cultural, ecological, and rural tourism.
- Improving service quality at tourist facilities and revising classification criteria.
- Developing financing mechanisms and supporting tourism investments in internal regions.
Reporting sources
- Radio Gafsa · Radio Gafsa
