Tunisian Ports to Undergo Major Dredging Works
The Merchant Marine and Ports Office has signed a contract worth 125 million dinars to carry out dredging works in the ports of La Goulette, Radès, Sousse, and Bizerte-Menzel Bourguiba. The works are scheduled to begin at the end of May 2026 and will last for approximately one year and eight months.
Project Objectives
The project aims to eliminate sand and sediment deposits that reduce the depth of the ports and complicate ship traffic. The goal is to restore the initial water depth to allow larger ships to dock in better safety conditions.
Modernization of Port Infrastructure
According to the Merchant Marine and Ports Office, this project is part of the program to modernize Tunisian port infrastructure. It is expected to improve the fluidity of maritime traffic, reduce ship waiting times, and strengthen navigation safety in the ports and maritime channels. The materials extracted during the dredging operations will also be reused to create new surfaces and land for the extension of commercial ports.
Economic Benefits
The institution estimates that this project could contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of Tunisian ports, supporting commercial activity, and reducing certain costs related to the transportation and transit of goods. The contract was signed on May 5, 2026, by the General Director of the Merchant Marine and Ports Office, Khaoula Belakhdhar, with the Belgian dredging company "BAGGERWERKEN DECLOEDT & ZN".
Expected Outcomes
The successful completion of this project is expected to have a positive impact on the Tunisian economy, particularly in the maritime sector. It will enable the ports to accommodate larger ships, increase trade volumes, and reduce costs associated with ship traffic. The project is a significant step towards modernizing Tunisia's port infrastructure and enhancing its competitiveness in the regional and global maritime trade.
