Fitch Solutions Warns of Serious Concerns for Tunisia's Food Security
In a report published in late October 2024, Fitch Solutions, the American subsidiary of the Fitch group, highlights serious concerns for Tunisia's food security.
The analysis underscores the growing fragility of Tunisia's food system, marked by repeated shortages since 2022.
Another aspect highlighted in the report is the alarming structural imbalance between supply and demand, which could exacerbate the country's economic situation.
According to Tunisian economist Moktar Lamari, food demand could increase by nearly 10% per year, while national supply remains limited and outdated.
Food inflation in Tunisia, estimated to be between 7% and 12% per year for the next five years, contrasts with a limited 3% salary increase, accentuating social inequalities.
The under-modernized agri-food sector struggles to meet the needs of a population that allocates 30% of its budget to food.
The increased dependence on imports of basic products exposes the country to fluctuations in global markets, while American experts highlight its growing vulnerability to climate change.
Despite foreign exchange earnings from olive oil and date exports, dependence on technological and food imports weakens the economy.
