Tunisian SMEs Face Intense Foreign Competition and Market Saturation
A recent survey conducted by the European Investment Bank (EIB) as part of the "Trade and Competitiveness Programme" (TCP), co-financed by the European Union, reveals that foreign competition and market saturation are the top concerns for Tunisian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
60% of Tunisian SMEs Identify Foreign Competition as a Major Obstacle
The study, published on Thursday, shows that 60% of Tunisian SME leaders consider foreign competition on international markets as a major obstacle to their development. The survey, which sampled 150 enterprises from key export sectors such as agro-industry, textiles, and automotive, paints a picture of a dynamic entrepreneurial fabric hindered by multiple constraints.
Tunisia's Economy Dominated by SMEs Seeking to Break into International Markets
SMEs represent approximately 97% of Tunisia's productive fabric. While they are essential to the national economy, they still struggle to establish themselves internationally. Although 88% of surveyed enterprises claim to export, only half do so regularly. One in ten SMEs remains completely absent from external markets, often due to a lack of means to comply with international standards, innovate, or prospect effectively.
Financing and Logistical Barriers Hinder SMEs' Internationalization
Among other obstacles, financing issues rank second, cited by 48% of leaders as a major hurdle to internationalization. Weak capital, limited access to credit, and insufficient support mechanisms limit their ability to invest in solid export strategies.
Persistent Logistical and Commercial Barriers
Even enterprises that have already taken the step of exporting face structural constraints. High logistical and customs costs, compliance requirements, and difficulties in establishing commercial partnerships abroad are cited by a large majority of respondents: 62% denounce excessive charges, and 44% point to isolation on target markets.
The Need for Structured Support and Training
To address these challenges, the Trade and Competitiveness Programme offers concrete support to SMEs, in partnership with Tunisian financial institutions. At the heart of this initiative are technical training sessions on strategic issues such as decarbonization, rules of origin, and European standards, as well as dedicated financing lines with alleviated guarantees.
A Call for Reinforced Support
The EIB study highlights the paradox faced by Tunisian SMEs: a strong desire to internationalize, but unfavorable conditions to achieve it. In the face of saturated markets and fierce competition, competitiveness becomes a decisive differentiating factor. Efforts to strengthen SME integration into export circuits must therefore be accompanied by reinforced support, both financially and technically, to enable them to transform their potential into sustainable international success.
