Tunisia and UNIDO Finalize New Country Partnership Program for 2026-2030
With a strong focus on the circular economy, decarbonization, and upskilling, this partnership aims to be a true accelerator of sustainable industrial transformation. As 2026 approaches, Tunisia is preparing to embark on a new strategic phase in its cooperation with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The Country Partnership Program, currently being finalized, goes beyond continuing the collaboration that has been in place for over three decades, and instead redefines and reinvents it in an innovative and impactful way, with renewed ambition. At the heart of this initiative is a strong idea: to evolve the Tunisian industrial model towards competitiveness based on sustainability, innovation, and inclusion. The roadmap, developed jointly by Tunisia and UNIDO, is based on five key pillars:
- Modernizing small and medium-sized enterprises: The first pillar aims to modernize SMEs, the foundation of Tunisia's economy, by introducing cleaner and more efficient technologies.
- Digital transition: The second pillar focuses on digital transition, which has become an essential step to improve productivity and access international markets.
- Decarbonization of value chains: The third pillar concerns the decarbonization of value chains, an issue that Tunisia is addressing at an increasing and evolving pace to align with global environmental requirements.
- Development of the circular economy: The development of the circular economy is promoted as a competitiveness lever, particularly through the Green Forward Industry project, which aims to transform the automotive, electronics, and electrical sectors.
- Social inclusion: Finally, social inclusion, through the training of young people, the integration of women, and the creation of green jobs, is a major dimension of this partnership. UNIDO has always applied this dynamic with an integrated approach that brings together government, private sector, and international donors. The objective is clear: to design an industrial ecosystem that can attract investment, protect the environment, and prepare the next generation of entrepreneurs and technicians to meet future challenges. With this 2026-2030 partnership, Tunisia aims not only to upgrade its technology but also to become a Mediterranean laboratory for sustainable and inclusive industry.
