World Congress of Junior Chamber International: Tunisia at the Heart of Global Digital Transformation Dialogue
The World Congress of Junior Chamber International (JCI), held from November 4 to 8, 2025, in Tunis, the capital, vibrated to the rhythm of innovation. The event, which brought together numerous participants - entrepreneurs, young leaders, and companies from around the world - placed Tunisia at the center of the global dialogue on digital transformation.
Panel Discussion: "Leading by Technology - How Tech and AI are Redefining the Regional Economy"
A panel discussion titled "Leading by Technology - How Tech and AI are Redefining the Regional Economy" was held on Wednesday, November 5, and brought together three Tunisian experts: Sami Ghzal, Amor Bouzouada, and Omar Triki. Together, they painted a picture of a country in full transformation, betting on technology and artificial intelligence as levers of competitiveness and sustainable development.
Artificial Intelligence: A Strategic Opportunity for Tunisia
"Artificial intelligence constitutes a strategic opportunity to modernize the Tunisian economy, improve business performance, and build a more efficient administration," emphasized Sami Ghzal, Director of Digital Economy and Investment at the Ministry of Communication Technologies. He detailed the national vision, based on four pillars: developing digital skills, modernizing data infrastructure, adapting the legal framework, and promoting innovation in high-potential sectors such as fintech, digital health, and cybersecurity. "Tunisia believes in the potential of its young people, their creativity, and their ability to turn ideas into concrete projects," Ghzal said, recalling that data protection and digital security are now just as important as national security.
Tunisia's Industrial Sector: Following or Leading Technology?
Taking the floor, Amor Bouzouada, Director General of the Agency for the Promotion of Industry and Innovation (APII), posed a key question: "Is our industry following technology or leading it?" For him, Tunisia must move from a classic industrial model to a technology-driven economy. Bouzouada explained that the APII is working to anchor innovation in the industrial fabric through several initiatives: the upcoming publication of a guide to project ideas, listing 40 investment opportunities in sustainable sectors, the launch of a virtual innovation hub to support young project leaders, and the development of the Hub 4.0 to help companies succeed in their digital transition. Bouzouada also emphasized alternative financing modes, such as crowdfunding, while warning about the "ethical and cybersecurity challenges" posed by new technologies.
Tunisia's Digital Advantages
"Tunisia has over 84% of its population connected to the internet, the ICT sector accounts for 11% of GDP, and the country has more than 2,200 active tech companies," added Omar Triki, Director of the Program Management Office at the Tunisia Development Foundation. He also recalled that the Startup Act has already labeled 1,200 startups, 25% of which are focused on artificial intelligence - a ratio higher than that of France. For him, Tunisia has three strategic advantages: a pool of exceptional talent, a geographical position at the crossroads of three continents, and a strong political will in favor of digital transformation. "Tunisia is not seeking to dominate by size, but by vision," he concluded. "By leading through technology, it can become a bridge between Africa, the Middle East, and Europe."
