Tunisia Prepares to Develop its First National Strategy
Tunisia is set to develop its first national strategy dedicated to the development of the maritime sector. This was announced by the Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, during a meeting held on Monday, June 2, 2025, in the presence of the Secretary of State in charge of Energy Transition, Wael Chouchane, and the Secretary General for Maritime Affairs, Asma Sehiri Laabidi.
The 2030-2035, presented by the latter, aims to structure a true shift towards a blue economy. Among the key axes: the development of maritime transport, the promotion of offshore renewable energies, and the encouragement of investments in maritime industries.
The Minister highlighted the need to conceive an integrated vision to make the maritime domain a lever that is both economic and environmental. She particularly pleaded for better integration between industrial zones, ports, and phosphate extraction and transformation units. The objective is to set up effective logistics networks and create platforms adapted to maritime value chains.
Moreover, Fatma Thabet Chiboub emphasized the modernization of the business climate in the sector: simplification of administrative procedures, updating of the legal framework for shipbuilding, strengthening of training in maritime professions, and launching international campaigns to attract foreign investors.
The Minister also insisted on the strategic role of marine energy in the country's energy security. She evoked a bill framing the expenses of dismantling offshore oil installations, while imposing environmental obligations on the concerned operators.
Finally, she proposed the creation of multifunctional free zones around major Tunisian ports, the launch of marine technology centers, and the development of maritime corridors through partnerships with Mediterranean and African countries. She also cited Japan and South Korea as potential partners, due to their recognized expertise in the maritime field.
