The Industrial Co-Development Forum Returns to Tunisia for its 3rd Edition
The Industrial Co-Development Forum is back in Tunisia for its 3rd edition, taking place on June 6 and 7 in Tunis. During the inaugural session, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, highlighted the "solid" relations between Tunisia and France, describing them as a "successful industrial partnership." Over 500 French companies operate in Tunisia, generating more than 100,000 jobs. France has positioned itself as a strategic partner for the country in key sectors such as textiles, automotive, and more.
Economic Benefits of French-Tunisian Collaboration
According to the Minister, Tunisia currently has a trade surplus with France, thanks to the active participation of French companies. In fact, 30% of these companies have shown significant growth, particularly in terms of employability. "Half of them have also concluded partnership agreements with numerous Tunisian universities to offer training and support for executives in sectors that meet their needs," she added. These initiatives not only create high-value-added jobs but also provide young Tunisians with the opportunity to evolve and work in their country.
France's Growing Interest in Tunisia's Economic Potential
French Ambassador to Tunisia, Anne Guéguen, emphasized France's growing interest in Tunisia's economic and commercial potential, as well as the strengthening of bilateral relations. She highlighted Tunisia's strategic geographical position, which creates a favorable business climate.
Tunisia: A Key Commercial Hub
Tunisia is an ideal commercial hub for exporting to Europe, as well as to other African and Arab countries.
Digitalization of Tunisian Industry
The Minister also announced that, in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT, the Ministry of Industry is working on a large-scale project to digitalize Tunisian industry, specifically Industry 4.0. The Minister stressed the importance of accelerating this process to provide industrialists with rapid, direct, and operational access without the need for administrative intervention. Digitalization is a top priority for this sector, given its benefits in terms of performance, agility, competitiveness, and profitability.
Tunisia's Industrial Fabric
According to the APII, Tunisia's industrial fabric consists of approximately 4,754 companies with a workforce of 10 or more, including 2,138 that are 100% export-oriented.
