German Companies in Tunisia Remain Confident in the Country's Potential
The annual business climate survey presented by the Tunisian-German Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK Tunisia) reveals that German companies established in Tunisia remain confident in the country's potential. Despite an uncertain international context, the majority of investors plan to maintain or even increase their investments in 2027.
Key Findings
- 82% of surveyed companies plan to maintain or increase their investments
- 44% of companies plan to hire more staff, indicating a long-term development strategy
- The availability of qualified labor has become the primary factor for companies to establish themselves in Tunisia, surpassing production costs and proximity to Europe
Shift from "Low Cost" to "Best Cost"
The survey highlights a significant change in the criteria for attracting companies to Tunisia. For the first time, the availability of qualified labor has become the primary factor, ahead of production costs and proximity to Europe. Several companies noted that their Tunisian site is now among the best within their international groups. This evolution marks a shift from perceiving Tunisia solely as a competitive destination in terms of costs to a platform offering high-value-added technical and industrial skills.
Increased Investment in Research and Development
This upgrade is also reflected in the nature of investments. Several German groups are now developing research and development (R&D) centers in Tunisia, while each company has a center of excellence to develop specific expertise for the entire group.
Growing Activity
The year 2025 confirmed this dynamic, with:
- 67% of companies recording an increase in turnover compared to 2024
- More than half of the companies strengthening their workforce
- 92% of respondents anticipating good or satisfactory activity in 2027
- 71% estimating that the Tunisian economic situation will remain stable or improve
Gateway to Africa
Beyond the Tunisian market, investors also see the country as a base for regional development. According to the survey, 79% of companies consider Tunisia as a future hub for their activities in Africa. This perception confirms the country's growing position as an industrial and logistical platform connecting European and African markets.
Conclusion
The 2026 AHK Tunisia survey shows that the country's competitiveness now relies less on labor costs and more on the quality of its skills, industrial expertise, and ability to host high-value-added technological projects. This evolution is driving the confidence of German investors in Tunisia's potential.
