Qawafel Gathering: Unlocking Potential Export Opportunities with ZLECAF
During the second edition of Qawafel Gathering, held on December 18 at the Tunisie Foundation for Development, potential export opportunities arising from the ZLECAF (Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine) were discussed.
Wahb Ouertani, President of CONECT INTECH, emphasized that access to information about these opportunities is not lacking for entrepreneurs. Instead, he stressed that Tunisian entrepreneurs, in general, are resourceful in obtaining the necessary information. This, he believes, is contingent upon the company being mature and responsible.
Historically, Tunisia has always been a welcoming country, rather than one that its inhabitants leave. Tunisians have traditionally been poor traders, preferring to host and serve visiting merchants. According to Ouertani, Tunisians are more skilled in the service sector than in commerce.
When discussing Africa, Ouertani noted that Tunisian skills are often mentioned. However, despite these skills, there is a lack of know-how to ensure effective structuring of companies, facilitating access to African markets.
Ouertani highlighted two key areas that CONECT is working on:
1. Economic Diplomacy
Economic diplomacy is almost non-existent in Tunisia, according to Ouertani. It would have been useful in preparing for negotiations with the ZLECAF. During the negotiations, there were intense discussions, including a standoff to guarantee the rights of Tunisian exporters.
2. Tunisian Enterprises
In terms of competence and technicality, Tunisian enterprises are among the best, Ouertani declared. However, they have significant gaps in organization and preparation. For instance, companies that pursue certification export better, as they position themselves at international standards. Many enterprises avoid certification due to its high cost, which is why CONECT is urging CEPEX to integrate subsidized certification programs into their export promotion initiatives. Ouertani cited the example of Tunisian expertise in medical solutions, which struggles to be exported to Mauritania due to the lack of CE certification.
