Tunisia's Aerospace Industry: A Strategic Sector for the National Economy
Source: Ministry of Economy and Planning
In a context where Tunisia is seeking to strengthen its position as a high-value-added industrial hub, the aerospace sector is confirming its strategic role in the national economy. Today, the Tunisian aerospace industry relies on a network of over 80 companies, mostly export-oriented, and generates around 17,000 direct jobs, according to data from the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (FIPA). Integrated into global value chains, it has specialized in the production of high-precision components mainly for major European customers.
More broadly, the mechanical and electrical industries, which include aerospace, are a major pillar of Tunisia's export economy. According to figures from the Tunisian Mechanical and Electrical Industries Association (CETIME), they represent over 28 billion dinars in exports, with around 76% oriented towards the European Union, confirming the sector's strong dependence on European markets.
It is in this context that the current dynamics of the Safran group in Tunisia are unfolding. On June 3, the Minister of Economy and Planning, Samir Abdelhafidh, received the leaders of the French group to discuss the evolution of their activities and exchange views on their strategic orientations for the period 2027-2030.
During this meeting, Safran's representatives presented their development vision for the coming years, as well as the progress of their operations in Tunisia. For its part, the Tunisian government reaffirmed its willingness to support investments in high-tech sectors, considered a priority for the country's industrial transformation. The minister also expressed the support of public investment structures for the expansion projects envisioned by the group, with a view to strengthening Tunisia's position in global value chains.
The sector's performance also relies on a constantly evolving human capital. The country has over 260 universities and around 1,000 vocational training centers, training over 65,000 graduates each year, with a significant proportion in scientific and technical fields.
Present in Tunisia for several years, Safran operates three production sites located in Soliman, Grombalia, and Dhahri. The group employs nearly 3,300 people, including around 900 engineers and technical executives. Its activities cover the manufacture of several aerospace components, including aircraft seats, lighting systems, ventilation equipment, and other high-precision parts.
Through this industrial setup, Tunisia is establishing itself as an important link in the global production chain of the group, which supplies over 200 customers in around 30 countries.
